Southampton eye shock move for Brentford star

Southampton are reportedly showing an interest in Brentford defender James Tarkowski.

Saints boss Ronald Koeman is keen to bring a centre-back into the club before the transfer window closes on September 1, and the highly-rated Bees star is one of the names on his list of targets.

It is thought that the Dutchman’s first choice is Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk, but with that deal seemingly dragging on with the Scottish giants looking to secure Champions League qualification first, the South Coast side could look to the 22-year-old, who has one goal in two Championship appearances this term.

Koeman’s side have started the season in disappointing fashion in the Premier League, picking up one point from their opening two fixtures, conceding five goals in the process.