Jay Rodriguez agrees new deal at Southampton

Jay Rodriguez has ended speculation over his future by signing a new and improved contract at Southampton, keeping him at St Mary’s until 2019.

A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament means it has been over a year since the 25-year-old last played, but that has not prevented speculation about a summer move mounting.

Tottenham, Manchester City and Liverpool were among those to have reportedly shown an interest, but Rodriguez has dashed their hopes by agreeing a new deal at Southampton taking him through to 2019.

“I’m delighted,” Rodriguez said. “It’s been a tough year for myself being out, but I’m really delighted to sign the contract. It’s now about looking forward to the future.”

The last of Rodriguez’s 76 Southampton appearances came at Manchester City last April, when an awkward fall ended his World Cup dreams. That injury has kept him out ever since but the forward could well make a first-team return before the season comes to a close.

Rodriguez was not the only Southampton player approaching the last year of their contract, with Nathaniel Clyne also in the same position.

Speculation about the right-back has increased in recent months, with Manchester United strongly linked with a summer move for the England man.

Clyne’s contract talks stalled, but negotiations over a new deal have now reopened. The resumption of talks is a positive move given it appeared all but certain the 24-year-old would be heading for the exit.