Villarreal forward Ben Brereton Diaz ‘could make an immediate return to the Premier League with newly-promoted club’ – after starring on loan at relegated Sheffield United last season

According to reports, Villarreal striker Ben Brereton Diaz could immediately return to the Premier League with a newly promoted side.

The Chile international impressed in the second half of the season after joining Sheffield United in January.

He scored six goals in fourteen Premier League appearances, despite Blades’ relegation from the top flight.

As reported by The sunSouthampton are considering a move for Brereton Diaz as they look to strengthen their attacking line

The Saints secured promotion to the Premier League at the first time of asking after beating Leeds in the Championship play-off final last month.

He scored six goals in fourteen games for Sheffield United and Southampton are keen to sign him

They are said to be exploring a permanent deal or another deal with an option to purchase.

Manchester City youngster Liam Delap is also on the south coast club’s shortlist.

The 21-year-old striker, son of former Southampton and Stoke midfielder Rory, was loaned out to Hull City last season.

He scored eight goals in 31 Championship appearances, after missing much of the season due to a knee injury.

Meanwhile, Adam Lallana is closing in on an extraordinary return to Southampton after a decade away from the club.

Manchester City’s young striker Liam Delap is also on Southampton’s shortlist

The 36-year-old is available on a free transfer after it was announced that he will leave Brighton and Hove Albion after four years.

This follows the permanent signing of on-loan centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis from Manchester City for £20m.