Exclusive: Southampton Star Zach Awe to Undergo Salford Medical After Deal Agreed

Southampton defender Zach Awe has agreed terms on a permanent transfer to Salford City and is set to undergo a medical, sources confirm to Football Insider.[2] The 21-year-old centre-back, who joined Southampton from West Brom in August 2023 on a three-year deal until June 2026, is departing the Championship club without a senior appearance for the Saints.[3][4]

Awe, a former England youth international, has been a target for League Two promotion contenders. Initially, both Walsall and Salford City submitted permanent offers, sparking a battle between the duo aiming for the title.[1][6] Despite interest from six Championship clubs earlier in the season, the defender is now finalizing his move to Salford.[4]

His limited first-team opportunities at Southampton stem from a congested squad and an Achilles injury that cut short his 2024/25 loan at Accrington Stanley in League Two. There, he made 27 appearances and scored once, proving comfortable at that level before returning to his parent club.[1][5]

Opinions on the transfer vary. Some view it as Southampton sending mixed signals about youth development, potentially offloading promise too soon when centre-backs often mature later. Critics argue the club should show patience rather than cash in on Awe amid squad bloat, especially when trimming underperformers elsewhere could clear pathways.[5] Others see it as a smart career move for Awe, offering guaranteed minutes at a high-stakes promotion push rather than languishing in the Championship youth setup.[1]

With the January window open, Salford—vying for elevation—secure a quality addition from Southampton's academy. Awe's exit highlights the challenges Premier League talents face transitioning to senior football, potentially building a solid career trajectory from League Two upwards.[1][2]

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