Southampton have reportedly put a huge price tag on midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, who is interesting both Arsenal and Spurs, telling both sides that he will cost more than the £27 million fee spent by Manchester United to acquire Luke Shaw, according to The Guardian.
Arsenal enquired about Schneiderlin’s availability yesterday, having agreed a fee with the south coast club for the transfer of Calum Chambers.
The St. Mary’s club are not willing to let Schneiderlin go cheap, however, and have slapped a huge price tag on him to ward off both north London rivals.
The new Southampton manager Ronald Koeman will meet Schneiderlin for the first time on Monday. The French international has been absent with permission after the World Cup finals, and begins his pre-season training at the start of next week. The manager considers the midfielder to be integral to his intended style at the club.
He is building a system around central defenders who can step out and win the ball at their feet, meaning Schneiderlin’s ability to tuck into defence will be integral.
Southampton have no need to sell Scheiderlin, and hope their valuation would deter bidders. The midfielder joined the club at the age of 18. He played for them in the Championship, symbolising their rise through the divisions.
Good attempt