Southampton are currently without a manager announcing Will Still’s departure on Sunday. They are looking for a new boss to revive their season.
A terrible 2024/25 season and a poor start to the return to the championship have meant that the pressure on Sport Republic has increased enormously. Fans are demanding change, starting with the appointment of a new boss.
However, now it is claimed that the Saints are about to make an intriguing signing outside the window.
Write on X, Spanish reporter Gerard Romero has claimed that Spanish defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu is set to return to Southampton on a free transfer after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season. These reports have since been amplified by several other outlets, including the The Daily Echo’s Alfie House And talkSPORT’s Alex Crook.
More details on Oriol Romeu’s return to Southampton
Following this news, transfer teacher Fabrizio Romano provided more details.
He states that Romeu will undergo his medical treatment ahead of a return to Southampton today (Monday) or tomorrow. He will then sign an initial contract until the end of the season, with an option to extend until the summer of 2027 if they wish.
Romeu left St. Mary’s in the summer of 2022 to return to Spain with Girona and make a high-profile move to Barcelona the following summer. They would loan him out again to Girona a year later, with the midfielder continuing to play at a high level despite now being 34.
It is hoped he has maintained solid fitness without a club. This way he can quickly come to the fore for the Saints and push for a place in midfield.
Oriol Romeu’s career appearances by club
| Club | Performances |
| Southampton | 256 |
| Girona | 65 |
| Barcelona | 39 |
| Chelsea | 33 |
| Stuttgart | 28 |
| Valencia | 18 |
An important signing for Southampton?
It will be difficult to find a Southampton fan who disapproves of the decision to sign Romeu. Some may see it as a simple way for Sport Republic to assuage fans’ anger, but it’s a smart addition for more reasons.
Shea Charles is on the sidelines for an extended period, leaving a gap in midfield. There was also a leadership void, and hugely experienced midfielder Romeu will certainly change that.
He will serve as a strong and determined presence in the middle of the park and possesses the necessary ball possession skills that saw him return to Barcelona after breaking through the academy.
Romeu can come in and serve as a standard setter in a Saints group that has been well below par so far this season.
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