Southampton target Ryan Fraser would ‘be a really nice option’ for new manager Nathan Jones in January, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 28-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at St James’ Park in recent months and could be offloaded by manager Eddie Howe as he looks to trim his first-team squad.

Southampton transfer news – Ryan Fraser

A recent report from The Telegraph has claimed that Newcastle are ‘willing to listen to offers’ for Fraser when the window re-opens for business next month.

It’s claimed that the Scotland international has ‘expressed his frustration’ at not holding down a regular starting berth under Howe this season and will look for a new club as a result.

Both Brentford and Southampton are listed among Fraser’s potential suitors, although it’s not known how much Newcastle are expected to demand to sanction his sale.

The Northern Echo have stated that the Saints are set to make ‘an early January move’ for the diminutive winger, who still has two-and-a-half-years left to run on his £63,000-per-week contract.

Jones will be looking to mould his Southampton side in his image over the winter, and the addition of Fraser could help him do exactly that.

What has Jones said about Fraser?

Jones believes that Southampton could ‘definitely do worse’ than pursue a deal for Fraser as they look to drag themselves out of the Premier League relegation zone.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “I think it would be a really nice option, actually. Fraser has clearly got his mind open at the moment to a transfer.

“He's very hungry, and he's at an age where he still has a lot to offer. I think Southampton can definitely do worse than to be pursuing a transfer like this.”

Would Fraser be a good signing?

Fraser made his name at Bournemouth and enjoyed the most productive campaign of his senior career back in 2018/19, registering seven goals and 14 assists in 38 Premier League appearances, as per Transfermarkt.

Unfortunately for the speedster, he has been unable to replicate that form since and has only racked up nine goal contributions in 59 outings for Newcastle.

The outstanding performances of Miguel Almiron have seen Fraser reduced to just three starts in the top-flight throughout 2022/23, and a move may be best for all involved.

Southampton has only found the back of the net on 13 occasions in their 15 league games to date, and Fraser could provide the additional firepower needed to remain in the division.