Southampton to rue transfer mistakes following missed Premier League opportunity | OneFootball

Southampton feels certain to face relegation. Though it is happening now, its foundation was laid way back. Safe to say, restricting priority to just youngsters has cost them.

You know when a legend like Johan Cruyff says this, "Football is played with the head. Your feet are just tools." he definitely means it. But, sadly, that's what Southampton has failed to realize this season.

Just remember last year's scenes at this time. A fresh Southampton side is on course to gain Championship promotion. Being in brilliant form, they are hoping for a Top Flight campaign next.

Now, it did happen, but the way their return Premier League season has been needs no introduction.

But what if I tell you that their campaign miseries were bound to happen? Well, this is because of an incompetent transfer strategy. No way just relying on youngsters would help a club stay up in the Top Flight.

Still, that's what they took long to realize. The result? In Cruyff-esque words, Southampton got defeated in the head or the planning part itself.

Now, what has happened can't be undone, but positively the Saints now have a template in the example of Leeds United to follow in the future.

Southampton should learn from Leeds' example ahead

Just take a look at Leeds' preparations, who are in Southampton's situation from a year ago. It's just March, and they have begun their summer transfer planning.

Most importantly, unlike Southampton, Leeds aims to bunch a group of proven Premier League players. Additionally, their young players join in the project.

As per Football Insider, Daniel Farke's side wants to prioritize a move for Tammy Abraham, an ex-Chelsea man. Further, they have the option of Saints forward Cameron Archer, open as well.

In addition, did I forget to tell you they still observe Ramsdale's situation?

Now, that's what a structured transfer strategy looks like. Southampton has neglected this, both in the summer and the winter, and has been hit to the chin twice.

The hope remains that learning from Leeds' case, Southampton will assemble a quality squad when they next return to the Premier League.