TRANSFER journalist claims that Middlesbrough defender Dael Fry, who Saints are reportedly interested in, will be available this summer if they fail to win promotion.

Fry, a 24-year-old centre-back and former England youth international, has been a key figure for Boro this season as they look to mount a promotion charge under new boss Chris Wilder.

If they win their one game in hand in the Championship, they will enter the top six and the playoff places.

The spotlight was shone on the Teessiders after they knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup fourth round with a penalty shootout victory at Old Trafford last weekend.

Fry played the full 120 minutes of the 1-1 draw before stepping up to score his spot-kick.

Daily Echo: Dael Fry starred in the win at Old Trafford (Pic: PA)Dael Fry starred in the win at Old Trafford (Pic: PA)

Now, Football League World report that both Fry and teammate Marcus Tavernier are of interest to Premier League clubs.

Fry in particular is said to be attracting attention from Saints, Wolves, West Ham, Burnley, Brighton, Brentford and Leeds – which could be quite the tussle if true.

Fry turns 25 in the summer and would represent good long-term value with plenty of development yet to come.

Transfer insider Dean Jones told GiveMeSport that he would be available for transfer this summer if Wilder does not win the side promotion from the Championship, in order to pursue a Premier League career.

He said: “Both of those players will be available in the summer if Middlesbrough don’t manage to win promotion.

“So, there are a lot of Premier League clubs looking at these two players, Dael Fry, in particular, Wolves, Brighton, West Ham and Southampton are all very interested in him.”

Saints already have four centre-backs in Mohammed Salisu, Jan Bednarek, Jack Stephens and Lyanco.

Stephens’ contract is set to expire at the end of this season, although it is likely his terms will be refreshed rather than exiting the club for free.

Dynel Simeu is also out on loan at League Two Carlisle United for the rest of this campaign, but a step up to regular Premier League squad member would be a big one for one year of senior football.

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has also tended to use a five-at-the-back more often this campaign, requiring three central defenders, and so a fifth first-team option may prove to be of use to Saints.

The club could also face a battle to keep hold of Salisu, if top clubs were interested. The intention is very much to keep hold of the 22-year-old Ghanaian.