Ben Brereton Díaz could be on the move before next Tuesday's 11pm transfer deadline, with Saints head coach Tonda Eckert saying conversations and negotiations are taking place over the 27-year-old's future.
Eckert did not confirm a deal, but he was clear that movement is expected in the coming days. He said there are talks happening at the moment and that he would expect there to be some news, while also noting that it is not a secret that there is still going to be some movement over the next few days.
The update comes after Brereton Díaz was left out of the squad for Saints' two most recent fixtures, including Tuesday night's 4-1 loss to West Ham. He was also omitted before that match against Stoke City, a sign that his role at St Mary's has already become uncertain.
Brereton Díaz joined Saints for £7million in 2024, but his time at the club has not worked out as hoped. He has made 17 Saints appearances without scoring or assisting, and the club has already moved him on once before, loaning him to Sheffield United in January 2025 after he spent last season on loan at Derby County.
Return routes already in play
There is now a familiar feel to the next step. Brereton Díaz has been linked with a return to Sheffield United and Derby County, two clubs that already know him well. With the deadline approaching, Saints will have to decide whether to keep him in the squad, move him on permanently or find another temporary solution.
The broader picture at Southampton FC also suggests more change is coming. Saints have already sold Shea Charles to Fulham for up to £30m and are still looking to add a centre-midfielder before the deadline. That means the final days of the window could shape both the attacking and midfield parts of the squad.
For Brereton Díaz, the key issue is simple: he needs a fresh start, and Saints now appear open to making that happen. Eckert's comments make clear that discussions are active, and the next few days should tell the full story.
