Southampton is arranging their squad for the upcoming season, aiming to achieve a balance between seasoned professionals, experienced 25-year-olds, and promising young talents. Recent reports indicate that the Saints are leading the race to sign one of League One’s most talented players.
Building a balanced squad isn’t about starting at the top and working down. It involves identifying targets across different areas, skill levels, and age groups. Ideally, headline signings would be made first, but that’s not how it usually works.
According to footballleagueworld.co.uk, Southampton’s first signing after the July 1st bonus payment date might be Ronnie Edwards from Peterborough United. This move might prompt some Southampton fans to criticize the club’s ambition, but they may be proven wrong as the season unfolds.
Ronnie Edwards, a central defender, is highly regarded outside the Premier League and is expected to succeed at the top level. Tottenham Hotspur is also reportedly interested in him. However, Southampton is leading the chase, offering Edwards a better chance to join the first team this season rather than playing in the B team.
At just 21, Edwards has significant experience. He played almost every game for Peterborough in League One last season, including both playoff matches where Peterborough was defeated by Oxford. Over the past three seasons, Edwards has appeared in 34 Championship games, 87 League One games, 4 playoff matches, and 10 cup games.
With 125 league games under his belt, Edwards has more experience than many older players. If Southampton completes this signing, Edwards would be a hybrid player—young but experienced. Although he might not start immediately, those familiar with his capabilities believe he could soon become a regular. He’s seen as a prospect for the future, but the very near future.
Peterborough would prefer to keep Edwards but recognize he deserves to play at a higher level. With only one year left on his contract, they know they need to sell now. If Southampton or any other club matches their price, they won’t stand in Edwards’ way.
