Southampton have reportedly made a surprise late swoop for Wolfsburg defender Maxence Lacroix, with manager Ralph Hasenhuttl seemingly keen to bolster his centre-back options before the transfer window closes.
What's the word?
That's according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who revealed on Twitter: "Exclusive: Southampton are in talks to sign Maxime Lacroix! Could be a huge one, not easy but negotiations are ongoing between clubs. Lacroix, keen on the move. Saints now trying — Caleta Car another option in the list."
This interest comes amid reports that Saints defender Jan Bednarek is nearing a departure from St Mary's, with both Aston Villa and West Ham United believed to be battling it out for his signature, while Jack Stephens has sealed a loan move to Bournemouth.
Southampton's own Rio Ferdinand
Having already bolstered their backline this summer with the addition of Armel Bella-Kotchap, it would appear that Southampton are keen to strengthen even further with the addition of Lacroix, with the Frenchman having made 77 appearances for his current club after joining from Sochaux two years ago.
The imposing 6 foot 3 gem notably enjoyed a fine Bundesliga campaign last time out, averaging an impressive 4.8 clearances, two tackles and 2.1 interceptions per game from his 29 outings. That record was superior to the eye-catching Bella-Kotchap, who averaged four clearances, 1.6 tackles and 1.9 interceptions per game from his 21 appearances in the German top flight last term for Bochum.
The former France under-20 international also notably ranks in the top 1% for interceptions made in comparison to those in his position across Europe's top five leagues, while the 22-year-old also ranks in the top 1% for dribbles completed, showcasing his composed brilliance in possession from his centre-back berth.
That combination of defensive strength and quality on the ball has even sparked comparisons between the £18m-rated sensation and former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand, with the Bundesliga website noting the youngster's 'grace' and 'elegance' which is akin to the now-retired Englishman.
Such a likeness bodes well considering the career that the defender-turned-pundit enjoyed at the elite level, winning six league titles and racking up 504 top-flight appearances, having even been lauded as an "icon" by former Saints colossus Virgil van Dijk.
One of the finest talents that the Premier League has seen, it is undoubtedly a hugely exciting prospect that Hasenhuttl and co could well be in line to snap up his heir apparent, with such an addition likely to be yet another astute piece of business for the Saints.
A "magnificent" asset in the words of Alex Chaffer, Lacroix could prove to be one of the statement signings of deadline day if Southampton get their man.