Southampton used transfer deadline day to their advantage, as they took the opportunity to strengthen two positions in their side: goalkeeper and striker. They’ve signed Nice goalkeeper Mouez Hassan on loan until the end of the season and they’ve went out and got striker Manolo Gabbiadini from Napoli.
Hassan is a 21-year-old goalkeeper that will come in and provide cover for Fraser Forster, as Alex McCarthy is out for the rest of the season. Gabbiadini, now under contract until 2021 with the Saints, comes over for Napoli and will be expected to fill the void left by Charlie Austin a big way.
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He’s only been a #SaintsFC player for a few hours, but @Mgabbia23 can’t wait to get started with his new team: pic.twitter.com/6MnBsNLAMj
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) February 1, 2017
Glad to be here, delighted to join @SouthamptonFC. I will give my best! Come on #SaintsFC! pic.twitter.com/MBXRmtEqTk
— Manolo Gabbiadini (@Mgabbia23) January 31, 2017
Both players have expressed their eagerness at getting started with Gabbiadini saying he “is very, very happy,” and Hassan saying that he is “really looking forward to joining the team.” Hassan has played for Claude Puel before, and Gabbiadini was referred to the club by Graziano Pelle.
Both players look like good deals for Saints who definitely need help in both areas. Despite Shane Long’s great form in the last week, Puel has been eager to have another high-caliber striker. They’ve spent the money now and they’ve gotten their man, and they will be hoping he hits great heights.
