Exclusive: Southampton Eager to Make Albert Gronbaek Deal Permanent in Bid to Bounce Back

Southampton want to sign Denmark international and Rennes loan midfielder Albert Gronbaek on a permanent deal after a successful loan spell this season, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The 23-year-old attacking-minded playmaker is valued between £12-14million and enjoyed his loan spell with the Saints this season despite relegation to the Championship.

And the ambition of playing regularly in England is what Southampton hope will swing a deal in their favour, especially with the player having settled into life on the south east.

Gronbaek only made four Premier League appearances last season as the club struggled badly to cope with the demands of being back in the top flight.

But the Saints see Gronbaek, capped six times by his country, is ideal for the Championship as the club look to bounce back at the first time of asking to the top flight.

Gronbaek made his senior international debut last September for Denmark against Switzerland in the Nations League and sparkled by winning the man of the match award. It that international pedigree which the Saints spotted last season and hope to develop this season with promotion in mind.

ENGLISH DREAM

Gronbaek signed for French Ligue 1 outfit Rennes on a five-year deal in July last year, but the player hopes to establish himself in England having enjoyed the challenge of playing against Premier League champions Liverpool this season, as well as Ipswich Town, Wolves and Brighton.

The former Denmark Under-21, U19 and U18 international has loved the experience of playing in the Premier League – and understandably wants more.

Gronbaek handed in a transfer request to leave Rennes this season, frustrated at a lack of playing opportunities under manager Jorge Sampaoli.

And SportsBoom understands Rennes are happy for the player to leave if the price is right.

"He hasn't really found his place here, he's not happy," Sampaoli said.