Southampton have been linked with a move for Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden recently but it is difficult to see whether he could add much quality to Ralph Hasenhuttl's squad.

What's the word?

According to reliable journalist Alan Nixon, Southampton are looking to add some strength to their midfield this summer and are considering a move for the Englishman, with Steve Bruce's side likely to demand around £10m for his services.

Watford are also credited with an interest in the 26-year-old and could hold an edge in any transfer negotiations as Bruce is keen on bringing Will Hughes to St James' Park this summer.

Would he be a good signing?

There is little to suggest that Hayden would be an upgrade on the options currently available to Hasenhuttl at Southampton unless any of his first choices were to leave.

James Ward-Prowse and Oriol Romeu formed a formidable partnership in central midfield last season, whilst Ibrahima Diallo and Stuart Armstrong also emphasised that they can perform well there when called upon.

Considering Hasenhuttl suggested before the window that funds were low and that Southampton would target players for £10m or less this summer, it would be strange to max out that budget on a player who would surely struggle to be a regular starter.

[snack-amp-story url="https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-southampton-transfer-rumours-and-news" title="Read the latest Southampton transfer rumours and news!"]

Hayden's performances last season also suggest that he wouldn't add much to Southampton's squad, as in 24 Premier League appearances, the former Arsenal man would average a less than impressive 6.67 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

The 26-year-old would also average 2.2 tackles per game last season, whereas Romeu would average 3.3 per game in the Premier League, which suggests that he wouldn't replace the Spaniard as the man to partner captain Ward-Prowse in midfield.

Therefore, Hasenhuttl should avoid a move for Hayden this summer unless Romeu happens to depart, as it seems clear that he wouldn't be a signing to inspire the Southampton fans, and they will likely be gutted that Nixon has suggested they hold an interest in the Newcastle midfield man. He's simply not worth the money.

And, in other news... Hasenhuttl can kill two birds with one stone in deal for "dynamic" 29-goal beast