Monaco close in on capture of Man Utd, Arsenal target

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Deandre Yedlin of Newcastle United runs with the ball under pressure from Mario Lemina of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Newcastle United at St Mary's Stadium on October 27, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images

Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina is on the verge of a move to Ligue 1 side Monaco, after Manchester United missed out on him this summer, according to reports.

The former Juventus midfielder has made his desire to leave St Mary’s Stadium clear, with Man Utd and Arsenal among the clubs linked before the English transfer window closed.

Lemina revealed his preference to join a club playing in European competition, with Europa League side Wolves also suggested as a possible destination – but again, a transfer failed to materialise.

Having failed to secure a move to a bigger Premier League club, Lemina now has his sights on Europe, with a return to Ligue 1 looking the most likely option.

According to RMC Sport, the 25-year-old has now agreed personal terms with Monaco ahead of a potential loan with an option to buy.

Southampton are still not keen on selling one of their prize assets, but Lemina remains determined to seal a move away.

Monaco are in need of reinforcements having narrowly avoided relegation last season, while this campaign hasn’t got off to a much better start, with Leonardo Jardim’s side stranded at the bottom of the league following successive 3-0 losses to Lyon and Metz.

Lemina would have no problems adjusting to life back in France, with the Gabon international having come through the youth ranks at Lorient before spending two seasons at Marseille.

 

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