Saints identify Mane’s replacement

Southampton are reportedly lining up a move for England international Andros Townsend.

After Premier League rivals Manchester United missed out on FC Barcelona forward Pedro to Chelsea earlier this week, the Red Devils are now pursuing the Saints’ Sadio Mane as their next alternative, meaning Southampton are weighing up possible replacements for their Senegal star.

Townsend, 24, who has scored three goals in nine international appearances, netted six times in 36 appearances in all competitions for Tottenham last season.

But with Townsend’s future at White Hart Lane in doubt; boss Mauricio Pochettino may be willing to let the England forward leave Spurs this summer for around £12m, especially if the Argentine gets his way with his own pursuit of Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama.