Former Southampton player could seal Premier League return with Leeds | OneFootball

After returning to the Premier League, Leeds United could sign a former Southampton player, Moussa Djenepo, to stake their claim in the top flight.

Southampton has always been seen as the Premier League's "feeder club." Many players who first made a name for themselves at Southampton have gone on to become Premier League legends, including Alan Shearer, Sadio Mane and Gareth Bale.

While this reputation might have tailed off in recent seasons, Southampton's recent relegation brings the opportunity for their best players to secure top Premier League moves. The likes of Tyler Dibling and Taylor Harwood Bellis are expected to be the next to join that illustrious list.

However, heading into the summer transfer window, nobody would have anticipated this former Saint to become a Premier League player.

Leeds United eye shock move for former Southampton player

According to a report from Africa Foot, Leeds United have made contact with Moussa Djenepo about signing him. His future is at a crossroads, after Standard Liege sent him out on loan for a season.

Antalyaspor has the option to sign Djenepo permanently from Standard Liege, but if that option isn't taken up, then Leeds United could be a contender to return him to the Premier League.

Djenepo was signed by Southampton from Standard Liege, before returning to the Belgian club in 2023. Now, his career could come full circle with yet another return to England, essentially leaving Southampton in the dust.

It would cast an even worse spotlight on Southampton if they head down, seeing one of their former players return to the Premier League without them. It would be a real sign of the times, and one that looks ugly for the Saints.

Djenepo, of course, still has plenty to offer. He's only 26 years old and is at the stage of his career where he's eager to kick on with a project. The recent promotion secured by Leeds United could give him that spark he needs to become a hero again.

At Southampton, Djenepo is remembered rather fondly. Sure, he never truly reached his potential in red and white, but he had a promising start and did nothing to ruin his reputation with the fans.

The reason why Djenepo left was amicable. He simply wasn't given the minutes to play for the club, so he was allowed to leave. It wouldn't be a bitter feeling seeing him play in the Premier League, but more bittersweet.