Transfer news: Southampton, Aston Villa, and Leeds United remain in chase for Josip Vukovic

Southampton, Leeds United, and Aston Villa remain in the race to sign Croatian star Josip Vukovic this summer.

The Maritimo midfielder helped the club keep their place in the Primeira Liga last season with his battling displays in the centre of the pitch.

The future of Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips could determine his destination with Vukovic’s route to Elland Road opening up should Villa land the Englishman.

Meanwhile, if Southampton manage to offload some of the deadwood in their squad it could be Ralph Hasenhuttl winning the race for his signature.

Previously scouted by Leicester City, Watford, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, it’s thought a fee of around £1.5million will be enough to prise him away.

The player has already turned down offers from Benfica, Lille and a unnamed Russian club this summer as he sets his sights on English football.

The 27-year-old joined Maritimo in 2018 from Olimpik Donetsk and has impressed with his all-action showings, making 25 appearances for the team currently managed by former Portugal international Petit.

Once a Croatian Under-19 international, he revealed to Portuguese outlet Record he still dreams of a senior call-up for his nation.

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