Southampton remain interested in signing Leeds United’s Pontus Jansson this summer, but only the loss of Virgil van Dijk will see the Premier League outfit make their move, according to reliable journalist, Alan Nixon.

Jansson has long been on Southampton’s radar, despite the defender only just beginning a three-year contract at Elland Road.

Nixon confirmed that any potential swoop for Jansson would depend on the future of van Dijk, who is in-demand this summer, with Liverpool one club chasing his signature.

Should the Dutch defender leave St Mary’s this summer, it is understood that Saints will pursue a deal for Jansson.

Leeds will be desperate to hang onto Jansson ahead of the 2017/18 campaign, particularly after how impressive he was last season whilst at Elland Road on-loan.

The Swedish international made 34 appearances in the Sky Bet Championship for Leeds, scoring three vital goals and helping the Whites challenge for the play-offs.

Leeds’ quest for the top-six ultimately fell short, but Jansson and his teammates will be targeting a more successful season next year, as they aim to end the club’s long wait for a Premier League return.

Under new head-coach, Thomas Christiansen, Leeds begin their Championship campaign on Sunday afternoon, when they face Bolton Wanderers.

Christiansen will be without Jansson, who is suspended for the trip to Bolton and League Cup clash with Port Vale the following week.

The Verdict

Alongside Chris Wood, Jansson is set to be Leeds’ most important player next season, and this news will not be well received among the Elland Road faithful.

It is vital that Leeds retain Jansson’s service this summer, particularly after the visible impact he had on the club’s season last year, transforming them from mid-table strugglers, to top-six contenders.

It seems unlikely Jansson will leave Elland Road this summer, with both club and player seemingly happy with their current situation.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!