Southampton launch £7.6m Ever Banega bid

Southampton have reportedly lodged a £7.6m bid with Valencia for Argentine playmaker Ever Banega.

The midfielder has been a consistent performer at the Mestalla in recent seasons, leading to 17 caps for Argentina at international level.

With Valencia missing out on Champions League qualification for next season, the Saints are confident of signing the midfielder and registered an official offer this weekend, according to The Mirror.

Banega nearly went to the Premier League four years ago, but a proposed move to Everton fell through following visa complications.

Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino is reported to be a long-term admirer of Banega and wants his countryman at St Mary's next season, primarily to offer a consistent supply line to top scorer Rickie Lambert.

Pochettino has already been busy this summer, landing Croatian international defender Dejan Lovren from Lyon on a four-year contract.