6 Premier League dark horses who will challenge for the top six next season

#5 Southampton

All eyes will be on Mauricio Pellegrino next season at Southampton

Southampton are one of the best-run and consistent sides in England. Every season they tend to lose their best players and even managers yet they always manage to be competitive. The club is extremely efficient in replacing players as well as managers. This is further confirmed by their regular top-half finishes.

Currently, Mauricio Pellegrino is in charge of the St. Mary’s hotseat, having taken over from Claude Puel this summer. Pellegrino has built a reputation for himself in Spain with Alaves and continues the quality managers’ entrée at the South Coast club.

The Saints are very likely going to lose their captain and center-back Virgil van Dijk in this window. Left-back Ryan Bertrand is being courted by Manchester City as well. However, they have already signed another defender in Jan Bednarek from Lech Poznan Further.

Southampton are trying hard to hold on to Virgil van Dijk

Nevertheless, their defence is one of the best in the league. Further, their signings always ensure the team does not lose its rhythm. Therefore, Southampton always have a chance to do well every season and are a tough team to play against.

This stability alone makes them a top-half favourite. The presence of Pellegrino gives them an extra edge this season and they are one of the dark horses for a top six finish in the coming season.