FLW identifies three players Southampton should consider developing by loaning them out for the 2024/25 season.
After their play-off final victory over Leeds United, Southampton can now shift their focus to the transfer market in preparation for their return to the Premier League. Russell Martin’s side secured their top-flight comeback with a tense 1-0 win at Wembley, thanks to a brilliant finish from Adam Armstrong that allowed them to control the game and limit Leeds’ chances.
Southampton’s defensive resilience was key to their success, as they preserved their clean sheet and ensured promotion. The Saints had a challenging previous season, finishing 20th in the Premier League with only six wins. To improve their performance this time around, they will need to strengthen their squad while retaining key players.
While the primary focus will be on incoming transfers, there are also players who need first-team football and are likely to be loaned out for the 2024/25 season. Here are three players who should be loaned out this summer to gain regular playing time.
Jayden Meghoma
Southampton has a history of developing young talent, and Jayden Meghoma is one of the most promising players from their U-21 side. As a left-back, he fills a crucial position where the Saints currently lack depth. However, Meghoma is not yet ready for Premier League football and would benefit from regular playing time elsewhere. With experienced players like Ryan Manning, Jack Stephens, Kyle Walker-Peters, and James Bree currently filling the left-back role, Meghoma has a clear pathway to the senior team in the future.
Juan Larios
Injuries have hindered Juan Larios’ progress this season, but the young Spaniard, who has trained at Barcelona and Manchester City academies, is highly talented. Despite being likened to Philipp Lahm by Ralph Hasenhuttl, Larios has only made five appearances for Southampton since his £6 million signing in 2022. To realize his potential, Larios needs consistent playing time, which he could achieve through a loan move. With the right development, Southampton could significantly increase his market value.
Sam Amo-Ameyaw
With Ryan Fraser and David Brooks returning to their parent clubs, Southampton needs more depth on the flanks. Seventeen-year-old Sam Amo-Ameyaw, who has already made eight appearances this season, shows great promise but may find it difficult to secure playing time in the Premier League. Amo-Ameyaw possesses dynamic qualities such as lightning pace and a flair for taking on defenders, making him a potent threat in the final third. A loan move to the EFL could accelerate his development and prepare him for a future role in Southampton’s first team.
By loaning out Meghoma, Larios, and Amo-Ameyaw, Southampton can provide these young talents with the experience they need to thrive and potentially secure valuable contributions to the team in the future.