FORMER Premier League goalkeeper David James has insisted Saints will “struggle to keep hold” of Armel Bella-Kotchap and labelled him a “good signing” for Liverpool.

The 20-year-old defender has impressed for the St Mary’s side in his debut Premier League season, since arriving from Bundesliga’s VFL Bochum in June.

Bella-Kotchap was given his senior Germany debut by manager Hansi Flick last month and retains his starting position for Ralph Hasenhuttl, playing alongside Duje Caleta-Car last time out.

His partnership with Mohammed Salisu had previously caught the eye of supporters, while Bella-Kotchap signed a lengthy deal to 2026 when he landed in England.

Under Sport Republic, Saints are not under pressure to sell their best assets regularly and only reluctantly allowed one player – Oriol Romeu – to leave in the summer transfer window.

Despite this, former Liverpool and Portsmouth shot-stopper, James, has been talking up the youngster’s chance of a move in the media.

“I do believe they’ll struggle to keep hold of him next summer. Southampton are renowned for producing talent and selling them. It’s been their M.O for decades,” he told The Games Cabin.

“You’re looking at a player who’s played 70-odd league games in his career already and that tells you that there’s something about him.

“If Liverpool come in for him, if he’s bought to be brought through slowly then he’d be a good signing,” James added.

“Clubs like Liverpool play in so many games over the course of the season, so young players will be given game time via rotation. How long will he be at Southampton?

“I’m not sure, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he moved to Liverpool or one of the other big clubs in the Premier League.”

Bella-Kotchap has made just seven appearances in the Premier League but his value would have already sky-rocketed past the bargain £9million paid.

Last week, Hasenhuttl called for calm surrounding the rise of Bella-Kotchap – with media touting the youngster for a big move in the years to come.

“Let them play a good season. I remember when I was playing, you needed two or three good seasons before people talk about you as a good one,” he said.

“Now, meanwhile, three or four games are enough. Give them time, keep it calm.”

Speaking about his move to Saints in August, Bella-Kotchap told the Daily Echo: “It’s something different, new surroundings. A new country but I think the guys make it easy to settle in.

“I’m here, I’m glad I’ve come and I try to give my best every day to be the best player and person I can.” 

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook