Man Utd star Brandon Williams wanted by Southampton in January loan transfer to battle for full-back positions
SOUTHAMPTON are ready to go back in for Brandon Williams in January.
High-flying Saints were keen on a loan move for Manchester United whizkid Williams in the summer.
They were attracted by his ability to play as both a left and right full-back, to provide competition for Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Bertrand.
But Red Devils chief Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blocked the switch, despite signing Alex Telles from Porto.
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Williams, 20, has since played just two matches this season, with both coming in the EFL Cup.
Southampton would be interested in reviving a possible move when the transfer window opens, particularly with Ryan Bertrand stalling on a new contract.
Though SunSport understands if United were to agree to a move, it would be a loan given how highly they rate the England Under-21 international.
A host of Championship clubs are also keen to borrow Williams, who impressed when breaking into United’s first team last season.
The Manchester lad made 36 appearances for the first team and battled Luke Shaw for a place in the starting XI when both were fit.
Southampton's hopes of signing Williams will not have been helped by Shaw's latest injury.
The former Saint is out for at least six weeks after picking up a hamstring injury against Everton earlier this month.
It could mean Williams will be needed as back-up if Shaw doesn't recover for the New Year.
Saints travel to Wolves tonight and will move up to third with three points.