Fulham’s defensive star Ryan Fredericks has apparently been courted by West Ham United, as per recent reports. Head coach David Moyes is even willing to weigh up a move for the 25-year-old in the upcoming summer transfer window, after being impressed by his performance against Leeds United.
However, the Hammers could face stiff competition from fellow Premier League clubs with Southampton and Swansea City also interested in his services.
Southampton, in particular, are in dire need of defensive reinforcements this summer, following an awful season in the English top flight. The Saints are currently dipped in the relegation dogfight but could manage to survive the drop, should they gather enough points in the upcoming matches.
However, should they fail to survive relegation come the end of the season, the Saints are more than expected to lose the services of few of their star players, including Ryan Bertrand. The former Chelsea fullback is regarded as one of the best left-backs in England at the moment and is already courted by league leaders Manchester City.
In fact, the England international has been one of the most consistent left-backs in the league. Therefore, his departure may prove to be a huge blow for the Saints, especially if they drop to second division next season.
However, in the shape of Ryan Fredericks, Southampton may have found a perfect player, who can not only fill in the left back spot but also prove to be a very capable replacement for Ryan Bertrand.
The 25-year-old has been a mainstay in the defensive department for Fulham, who are one of the teams highly expected to win promotion this time around. He has made 39 appearances in the Championship this season, where he has already notched up an impressive tally of nine assists. Only Tim Ream and star player Ryan Sessegnon has managed more minutes than the England fullback for Fulham, which reflects as to how important he has been for the Cottagers, this campaign.
However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the 25-year-old will be looking for a new club in the upcoming summer transfer window. Southampton will definitely be the most logical destination for Ryan Fredericks considering their ability to nurture talented players.
But that being said, securing his services might prove to be a little too difficult for the Saints, especially with the opportunity of playing in the Premier League presented with the interest of West Ham United.
