High-flying Southampton are reportedly interested in Palermo’s Argentine youngster, Paulo Dybala as the 20-year-old nears the end of his contract and could be available for a knockdown price in January. The diminuitive, pacy striker has drawn comparisons to Sergio Agüero since shooting to fame as a teenager playing for Instituto de Córdoba and could be on his way to St Mary’s if Ronald Koeman can fend off other interest and agree a fee with Serie A side, Palermo.

Making his debut for Instituto whilst in the Nacional B, Dybala quickly established himself as a potential future star. At just 17, he become a regular starter for La Gloria and impressively scored 17 goals in his 40 appearances with the club, including two hat-tricks in one campaign.

Inevitably, interest from overseas intensified and it was Palermo who managed to sign the then 18-year-old with president Maurizio Zamparini perhaps a little foolishly announcing, “We have got Paulo Dybala – the new Sergio Agüero”

These comparisons are a little wide of the mark but moving to Serie A at a young age and being given the number 9 shirt is not easy. Since signing, Dybala has scored 10 goals in his 62 appearances for La Rosanero but with his current deal running down and an extension not agreed, other European clubs are circling.

Benfica were said to be the side closest to Dybala but Southampton are looking to rival the Portuguese champions for Dybala’s signature.