SAINTS have once again been linked with Barcelona full-back Junior Firpo, with reports in Spain suggesting he is “an option” for the St Mary’s side.

A Spain under-21 international, more simply known as Junior, the Barcelona defender was signed from Real Betis in August 2019 for a fee which reportedly could rise to £27.5million.

He played 18 times under Ronald Koeman last season, having faced competition from Jordi Alba at left-back.

ESPN reported last month that Saints had asked about the situation surrounding Junior.

And Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo now claim Saints and West Ham had been “interested in Junior's profile for weeks.”

The publication also claims AC Milan are interested in Junior on loan but Barca would prefer a permanent move for the Dominican Republic-born star.

Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl confirmed he would be on the lookout for a full-back this summer with Ryan Bertrand to depart St Mary’s, following the end of his contract.

Saints currently have youngster Jake Vokins, who has been out on loan at Sunderland, as a left-back option.

The likes of Jack Stephens and Mohammed Salisu occupied the role for the final games of last season.

The St Mary’s side have also been heavily linked with a move for Brest full-back Romain Perraud.