Southampton edge closer to Che Adams deal

Southampton will complete a move for Birmingham City striker Che Adams next week, signing last season's Birmingham top goalscorer for a fee of around £15.75 million. The Saints have been chasing Adams since January and will be the club's first major acquisition of what is expected to be a busy transfer window.

The player will travel to Southampton for a medical on Monday afternoon and will discuss personal terms with the club.

The Saints will beat several other high profile teams to capture Adams' signature, with newly promoted side Norwich City and Championship outfit Swansea City also ready to match Birmingham City's lofty asking price.

Adams, who has scored 34 goals in 116 for Birmingham City, has appeared for England's under-20 side and also played for Sheffield United over a two year spell between 2014 and 2016.

The Saints are also ready to sell Shane Long, and is understood that Championship duo Leeds United and Cardiff City are ready to pay £5 million to sign the player. Adams is seen as a suitable replacement for the outgoing Long by manager Ralph Hasenhattl.