£5 million Southampton priority forward signing from Leeds to offer goals, competition and cover for the squad

Southampton need goals, competition, and cover for Ross Stewart. Cyle Larin’s loan expires in the summer, and Saints will lose the only player in the squad who can play the traditional centre-forward role.

Gelhardt fits the profile Saints need perfectly

Ross Stewart has undeniable talent, but injuries have limited his playing time. Saints need options, and Joe Gelhardt fits the bill perfectly.

Gelhardt is only 22 and has a high ceiling. He has Premier League and Championship experience. This season, he has scored 11 goals and made four assists in 28 Championship matches while on loan at Hull City.

The 23-year-old former England Under-21 international has many strings to his bow. He can play on the right side of midfield, through the middle in the number ten role, or as a target man.

If Leeds United stay in the Premier League, they may be more willing to sell him because clubs often cash in on valuable players. Saints would not be the only club interested, but they could be well placed to make a move. Gelhardt ticks many boxes.

Priority signing whether Saints go up or not

If Saints do not secure promotion this season, Gelhardt should be high on the list of targets. Southampton need to strengthen if they remain in the Championship, as the league is tough and could become even tougher with the likes of Nottingham Forest and West Ham United battling relegation.

Gelhardt will cost a significant sum, in the region of £10 million. Leeds will want to exploit his potential, as they know other clubs, such as Southampton, would have a clear need and might be prepared to back a player who can add value now and in the future.

His profile fits the Southampton model because he is young and offers potential upside. He would bring guaranteed goals and add a fresh dimension to the attack. Saints need players who can break down organised defences because the Championship is full of physical teams that concede few chances.

Competition for places is healthy because it pushes everyone to improve. Gelhardt could push Stewart, Azaz, Fellows, and the impressive Matsuki. He has the attributes to be a difference maker, particularly if Southampton remain in the Championship.

Southampton need to plan ahead and not wait for circumstances to dictate their strategy. If Leeds are willing to sell and Gelhardt wants first-team football, Saints should be ready to move quickly and decisively as soon as the summer transfer window opens.