Southampton striker Che Adams could be the player who ‘steps forward now’ for the south coast club, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 26-year-old was heavily linked with a move away from the Saints throughout the summer, but a formal offer never materialised, and he ended up staying put.

What is the latest news involving Adams?

At the end of July, The Sun reported that Leeds United were lining up a ‘surprise move’ for Adams, while Football Insider claimed Nottingham Forest were also interested in his services.

The Athletic then disclosed after Southampton’s opening-day defeat that Ralph Hasenhuttl was prepared to sanction the Scotland international’s sale, sparking further speculation over his potential exit.

However, neither Leeds or Forest made an official approach for Adams as they opted to sign Wilfried Gnonto and Emmanuel Dennis instead.

With two years remaining on his current £52,000-per-week contract, the creative talent could have this season to save his Southampton career or risk being sold next summer.

What has Jones said about Adams?

Hasenhuttl oversaw a busy window following an underwhelming 2021/22 campaign, bringing in 10 new recruits either on a temporary or permanent basis.

Yet Jones believes this could be a ‘big season’ for Adams, who wants to take this term ‘by the horns’ and showcase his true ability.

He told GiveMeSport: “This can be a big season; he really wants to take this season by the horns and show everybody what he's capable of. And I think that Che Adams is the guy that steps forward now for Southampton.”

How good has Adams been playing?

Southampton signed Adams from Championship outfit Birmingham City for £15 million back in 2019, and he has offered a decent return since then.

In 116 appearances across all competitions, the 5 foot 10 ace has registered 25 goals and 12 assists, and he has started the current campaign in impressive fashion.

As per WhoScored, Adams has won 3.2 aerial duels, made 1.6 key passes and had two shots per league game so far this season, placing him in the top two for each metric when compared to his teammates.

Adams has also scored four goals in his six games, bagging braces against Leicester City and Cambridge United, and Southampton will surely be hoping he can maintain this form in the weeks and months ahead.