Southampton refuse to lose wonderkid Carlos Alcaraz cheaply and demand over DOUBLE £12m they paid amid transfer interest
SOUTHAMPTON are digging their heels in over the sale of Carlos Alcaraz.
A host of clubs, including Brighton and AC Milan, have shown interest in the midfielder.
But the Saints, who only signed Alcaraz in January, are reluctant to lose the 20-year-old following an impressive start to life in English football.
The south coast side have slapped a £25million valuation on the Argentine in order to try and ward off suitors.
Southampton paid £12million for the attacking midfielder to sign him from Racing Club in January.
Portuguese club Benfica and Bundesliga side RB Leipzig are also showing an interest in Alcaraz and further talks are expected in the coming weeks.
The prospect of a season-long loan in the hope that Southampton are promoted back to the Premier League and Alcaraz can return to St. Mary’s has been discussed but was dismissed by Saints.
Despite Southampton’s relegation, Alcaraz was one of the only signings to have made a positive impact, with four goals and two assists from midfield following his January arrival.
Asked about his future while in Argentina last week, he said: “I know there are a few clubs interested in me, but the truth is, I’m currently very happy at Southampton.
“Now I’m enjoying my vacation with my family. In July, we’ll see what happens.
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“If I have to remain at Southampton, I will, as they were the club that first opened the doors for me and gave me the chance to play in the Premier League.
“Southampton is a beautiful club that has always treated me well. So if I have to stay, I’ll do my very best to come back to the Premier League.”
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