Southampton FC enter race to sign £3m-rated star - He was previously wanted by QPR and Stoke City | OneFootball

Looking to get their transfer business rolling, Southampton are interested in 21-year-old Sturm Graz right-back Max Johnston.

Looking to strengthen following relegation back to the Championship, Southampton are interested in Sturm Graz right-back Max Johnston, who has attracted suitors across the continent.

As per Sky Sports' Anthony Joseph, Saints are interested in the fullback, who is valued at around £3 million by Sturm Graz.

Middlesbrough-born Johnston has represented Scotland since under-16 level, and made his senior international debut in March this year, coming on as a late substitute for Billy Gilmour against Greece.

Joining from Scottish outfit Motherwell in the summer of 2023, the 21-year-old has become a key player in Styria, making 20 Bundesliga appearances for Sturm Graz as they won their first league title since 2011, while also lifting the ÖFB-Cup.

With the club on their way to picking up their second title in a row, Johnston has registered five assists and scored one goal across 22 league appearances, while making five appearances in the Champions League.

Max Johnston's 2024/25 stats correct as of 16/05/25 (Transfermarkt)

Southampton target Max Johnston attracting interest across the continent

Alongside Southampton's interest, the performances of Johnston have earned the Scotsman plaudits across the continent.

As reported by Anthony Joseph, German sides Augsburg and recently-promoted Hamburger SV are among the sides who have been watching the fullback this season.

2023/24 Europa League winners Atalanta have also shown interest in Johnston.

Following his debut campaign in Austria, Sturm Graz also reportedly rejected approaches from French outfit Stade de Reims, alongside Championship clubs QPR and Stoke City, with Graz feeling that he was in the best place to develop with the offer of Champions League football.

As of now, heading into the summer of 2025, the Austrian champions value the right-back at around £3 million.

Southampton aiming for immediate bounce-back

After a dismal 2024/25 Premier League campaign, Southampton are looking to reset over the summer months ahead of another promotion charge next term, following their ascent via the play-offs twelve months ago.

Southampton could also be set to lose current right-back Kyle Walker-Peters, who has been linked with Leeds, West Ham, Spurs, and Everton. Transfer expert Graeme Bailey told Leeds United News that several clubs are circling the 27-year-old, with no decision made yet.

Bailey said: “I am told no decision just yet. Leeds have had contact, but as we know, they’re one of many clubs to be in touch with him. West Ham, Spurs, Everton… there are loads. And some foreign clubs are lurking too."

Walker-Peters has made 33 appearances in the Premier League this season, notching two assists in what was a difficult campaign for Saints.