Tuesday, 24th June, 2014
Southampton have made a late entry into the race for Livorno striker Paulinho, hoping to beat Al Jazira to the signature of the Brazilian.
Al Jazira have been making all the running for Paulinho and Livorno's president has promised to do what is best for the club and player.
It had seemed that meant a move to the Middle East, but according to Sky Italia, Southampton are threatening to spoil Al Jazira's swoop.
The Saints have the financial muscle to match the Arab club and are looking into taking Paulinho to St. Mary's.
Paulinho was in fine form for Livorno in Serie A last season, finding the back of the net on 15 occasions in 35 league games, as well as chipping in with six assists for his team-mates.
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The striker, who joined Livorno from lower league Italian outfit Sorrento, is under contract until 2018.
However, Livorno are very much open to selling Paulinho for the right price.
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