Monaco register interest in Southampton defender Mohamed Salisu

Southampton centre-back Mohammed Salisu has emerged as a summer target for Ligue 1 club AS Monaco, claims Foot Mercato.

The 24-year-old has not featured for the Saints since mid-March after being banished from the first team over doubts about his commitment to the south coast club.

Southampton blamed his absence from the squad on an unspecified injury problem he picked up while on international duty with Ghana, and the defender failed to make an appearance for the rest of the campaign.

Salisu is open to a departure from St Mary’s this summer, especially in the wake of Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League.

The Saints finished the campaign rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table and will play second-tier football next season for the first time since 2011/12.

Salisu is reportedly reluctant to stick around for a potential promotion fight and is willing to jump ship this summer with Monaco hot on his trail.

Les Monegasques narrowly missed out on a European berth last season after finishing sixth in Ligue 1, two points adrift of the Europa Conference League qualification spot.

They have already lost Malang Sarr, with the 24-year-old returning to Chelsea after the expiry of his loan contract. 

Axel Disasi could also be on his way out of the Stade Louis-II amid concrete interest from several Premier League clubs.

Chelsea and Manchester City are among those rumoured to be interested in the France international centre-back, but he could be on his way to Manchester United.

Disasi has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Red Devils, who will now begin negotiations with Monaco over a transfer fee.

The French club are scouring the market for Disasi’s potential replacement. Salisu, who has been rock solid for Southampton, has emerged on their radar.