Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl refuses to comment on Ings to Man City rumours

Paul Macdonald

• Updated: 20 May 2021 13:24 BST
• 2 min read

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl insists Danny Ings’ future will not be played out in public amid links to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

Ings, 28, has been a key member of Southampton’s side since he arrived from Liverpool in 2018, scoring 38 goals across two-and-a-half seasons.

Injuries have blighted his career, particularly in his last spell at a Champions League club, Liverpool. He has made no secret of the fact he wants to play at the highest level possible as he enters the final 18 months of his contract.

Hasenhuttl refused to be drawn on the striker’s future but did say that talks over a new contract are underway.

“It’s a topic which doesn’t make sense to discuss here, we are in negotiations with the player and there’s nothing more to say about that”, he said, per Sky.

“Any rumours out there, it’s not for me to comment on. It’s always coming from the same direction and it doesn’t make sense to comment.

“He is an important player for us, he wants to stay with us. It’s not a reason to speak about it in the media.”

Ings’ form, particularly last season but also when he has been fit this year, will certainly put him in contention for a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the rearranged Euro 2020 this summer.

City are in the market for a new striker this summer, with Sergio Aguero struggling for fitness and also out of contract.