Southampton ‘join race to sign Demarai Gray on a free transfer’ from Leicester

Southampton are reportedly interested in signing Leicester winger Demarai Gray on a free transfer this summer.  

The 24-year-old, who was part of Leicester’s title winning squad in the 2015-16 season, is out of contract at the end of June and expected to leave the club.

According to The Sun, the Saints are set to make a move for Gray, who is now able to speak to foreign clubs about a pre-contract agreement.

Demarai Gray (left) is out of contract in June and has been linked with a move to Southampton

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl is building an exciting team on the south coast

There is also interest from other Premier League teams, now that the new rules on transfers following Brexit are being enforced. 

Top-flight clubs are limited regarding the amount of overseas players they can sign, they must also have the right amount of ‘homegrown’ players in their squad. 

Gray offers a chance to bring in experience and proven quality without a fee to satisfy new regulations. 

Southampton are exploring the possibility of taking the winger to St Mary’s, as Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl continues to build an impressive and dynamic squad.    

Saints have been impressive this season and look to be a club heading in the right direction

Benfica, Marseille and Monaco are among a host of continental clubs hoping to hold talks with Gray this month. 

The 24-year-old’s career thus far will give him enough points to secure a work permit, now that the UK is outside of the EU.

It is believed Gray’s preference is to move abroad, but he could be tempted by a deal to join Southampton, who have made rapid progression under Hasenhuttl’s guidance. 

Southampton however are keen to wait until the summer when Gray is a free agent to make their move.