Four players Southampton FC to could loan out in January

We examine several players that Southampton should consider loaning out temporarily this season.

Southampton has opted to retain the services of Will Smallbone for the current season, having loaned him to Stoke City in the previous one. His stint at the bet365 Stadium proved beneficial for his development, making it a logical choice to keep him, especially in the Championship, following their relegation.

Despite their descent to the second tier, there remain players who may not yet be ready for first-team action or require temporary loans to ease the wage bill. The temporary departures of Armel Bella-Kotchap and Duje Caleta-Car, who joined Lyon and PSV respectively, have already contributed to wage bill reduction.

Others, like Dom Ballard, have been sent on loan to acquire valuable experience. Ballard is expected to gain considerable knowledge during his tenure at Reading. He hopes to capitalize on his time at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, despite any off-field issues that Reading might face.

In January, there may be additional players suitable for temporary loans, and we’ve identified some potential candidates below.

1. Juan Larios

Larios did make five league appearances for the Saints, but he hasn’t been involved in the first team so far this season and that will be a blow to the teenager.

If it wasn’t for his injury, he may have been a key part of the South Coast side’s plans but he faces another couple of months out.

Some would argue that he should be part of the first team when he returns but it may take him a while to get up to his stands following such a long time out and it could be argued that loaning him out would benefit the Saints.

If he can enjoy a good loan spell away from St Mary’s he could be a real asset during the 2024/25 campaign and beyond.

2. Jayden Meghoma

England international Meghoma may only be 17 but he played against Gillingham in the Carabao Cup earlier this season.

And as an England youth international, the left-back may fancy his chances of stepping up to the plate lower down the EFL, or potentially in the National League.

It could be argued that he’s too young to be loaned out – but Reading loanee Ballard is only 18 at this point – so it wouldn’t be a shock if Meghoma left temporarily.

Kyle Walker-Peters can play on the left-hand side along with existing option Manning, so he may find it difficult to win much game time at St Mary’s at a senior level this season.