Why Southampton should go all out to sign Dedryck Boyata in January
According to the Sunday Post, Olympiakos are plotting a January move for Celtic defender Dedryck Boyata.
The 28-year-old has been excellent for Celtic this season after the Hoops denied him a move to Fulham during the summer. The Belgian defender is contracted to Parkhead until the end of this season, meaning that Celtic will have to sell next month if they are to avoid losing him for free.
The 28-year-old has played a crucial role in Celtic’s double treble under Brendan Rodgers and the Scottish champions would certainly hate to lose a player of such value for nothing. That opens the gate for the Bhoys to cash in on Dedryck Boyata in January when he still has value.
Southampton must beat Olympiakos to the signature of Boyata in the New Year.
Southampton are in dire need of defensive reinforcements following some poor performances this season. The Saints have won two and lost two of their games since Ralph Hasenhuttl’s arrival as manager.
Following victories over Arsenal and Huddersfield, which earned Hasenhuttl much praise, Southampton were beaten 2-1 at home by West Ham last Thursday.
The defeat against West Ham gave Southampton fans a reality check and a reminder that they must remain patient with Hasenhuttl’s project at the club. But it’s clear that the Saints will find it very difficult to beat the drop without January reinforcements.
Given how Southampton have been sixes and sevens defensively, Hasenhuttl must prioritise strengthening it before moving onto achieve other potential targets.
Dedryck Boyata could be that player to solve the Saints’ defensive woes. Boyata has been a rock at the back for Celtic in the last few years and his incredible performances in the defence helped the Glasgow giants to the double treble last season.
The Belgian remains very calm under pressure and can read the game well, which helps him stop the opposition attacks. He is a terrific tackler and can make timely interceptions in his own half when the pressure is on his shoulders to deliver on the pitch.
Boyata’s leadership and strong attitude will help the club in spades as the fixture list becomes more and more congested. Moreover, his experience of winning multiple trophies with Celtic and international pedigree makes him even more valuable.
And given Boyata has entered his prime years and could be available on a bargain fee in January, it would make the move an absolute steal for Southampton. The Belgian’s previous experience in the Premier League with Manchester City should make him even more valuable for the Saints.
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Hence, Southampton must not think twice about splashing the cash to sign Boyata in January.