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Even before he completed his first full season in the Spanish top flight, central defender Mohammed Salisu had already caught the attention of clubs across Europe. His form with Real Valladolid in LaLiga had been impressive, prompting Premier League Southampton to make their move.
The deal that brought Salisu to England reportedly cost Southampton around £ 10.9 million, and although some experts considered it a gamble, after the transfer was announced in August, the club’s management is fully satisfied.
They are sure to have landed one of the most promising young defenders in European football.
Last season was a real fight for Southampton, who narrowly avoided relegation, so strengthening the defense would always be a key focus for their coach, Ralph Hasenhüttl.
The German coach sees his new Ghanaian signing as a player with great potential, confident that he will adapt quickly to the demands of playing in the Premier League.
#SaintsFC is pleased to confirm the signing of central Mohammed Salisu from @realvalladolid with a four-year contract! 😇
– Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) August 12, 2020
In fact, since Salisu’s arrival, the football betting odds for Southampton have improved. They now have a 13/8 tip to comfortably finish in the top half of the Premier League. If the 21-year-old can reproduce his excellent form at Real Valladolid, it’s fair to say that the Saints will be more than happy with their latest addition to the team.
Salisu’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. After making the switch to Real Valladolid, he was immediately impressive in the Spanish third division with his B team.
Having already made an absolute appearance in the Copa del Rey during the 2018-19 season, the coaching staff did not hesitate to be promoted to the first team squad.
From his first appearance in LaLiga at the start of the 2019-20 campaign, and throughout the season, Salisu proved time and again his worth as a vital defensive player at Real Valladolid.
His form and consistency earned him high praise from his head coach, Sergio González, who was understandably reluctant to see such a key player leave.
Nothing but positive things to say about Salisu. Since he joined the Real Valladolid first team, he has shown his quality, learning ability and, in general, progress as a footballer. An excellent young player and coup for Southampton. https://t.co/k8vd6SeFPq
– David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) August 12, 2020
The Spanish club, which was already attracting widespread attention from several major clubs in Europe, always faced a battle to keep Salisu on its books. However, Southampton’s offer coincided with the termination clause in their contract, meaning there was little they could do to prevent their departure.
Currently, Southampton have many central defensive options at their disposal, which means that Salisu will undoubtedly have to fight for his place on the team. However, expert analysts in the Premier League believe that he can have an instant impact, thanks to the fact that he possesses important physical and technical qualities that the team currently lacks.
If performances in Spain’s LaLiga were any indication, Salisu is more than prepared to make his mark in the Premier League, provided Southampton are prepared to give him plenty of games. Similarly, it shouldn’t be long before he makes his debut for the Ghana national team, having missed previous international opportunities due to minor injuries.
This could be a huge season for Salisu, his club and his country, if all goes according to plan.
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