The former Marseille man is on Koeman’s radar
Southampton boss Ronald Koeman is reportedly lining up an offer for FC Porto’s holding midfielder Giannelli Imbula.
The 23-year old, who has represented France at under 21 level, only moved to the Portuguese side in July, but the Saints see him as a potential replacement for Victor Wanyama.
Wanyama has been tipped to leave the south-coast side since he allegedly handed in a transfer request in the summer.
Southampton are trying to tie him down to a five-year contract, but apparent interest from Arsenal so close to the January transfer window may see the Kenyan leave St Mary’s.
According to the British press, Southampton have a bid in the pipeline for Imbula, just incase Wanyama uses the exit door.
‘He has the speed, skill and physique’
Ex-Arsenal star Robert Pires has helped fuel speculation that Wanyama could join the Gunners. He admitted that he would like to see Arsene Wenger sign him in the near future.
“I know Wanyama. He has the speed, skill and physique,” said Pires.
“He is a very good ambassador of Kenyan football and has done well in Southampton, but I hope he signs for Arsenal in the future. However, I think he needs to score more goals because then he will be world-class material.”
