Southampton to beat West Ham United in race to sign Barcelona defender Marlon?

Southampton have reportedly edged out West Ham United in the race to sign Barcelona defender Marlon.

Marlon is attracting interest from a number of clubs after making 27 appearances on loan at Nice last season, and the Saints and Hammers are said to have made their moves.

However, according to The Mirror, Southampton are on the brink of pushing through a deal for the 22-year-old after agreeing a £10m fee with Barcelona.

Mark Hughes has been proactive in the transfer market over the past week with both Stuart Armstrong and Mohamed Elyounoussi having already arrived at St Mary's, and it appears that the Welshman is now focused on strengthening his defence.

Marlon has been signed to Barcelona for two years but just three appearances have been made in all competitions, the last of which came during the closing weeks of the 2016-17 campaign.