Chelsea are expected to launch a big bid for Luke Shaw in the summer, but Graeme Le Saux has advised the youngster to stay at Southampton.
Shaw has emerged as one of the best young talents in the country over the past couple of years, during which time he has made 48 appearances in the Premier League. Although Leighton Baines, of Everton, is likely to start as England’s left back for the World Cup, the St Mary’s star is sure to earn a first call up to the senior squad in the near future.
His performances have also seen him linked with both Manchester clubs and, in particular, Chelsea, who see him as the ideal successor to 33-year-old Ashley Cole, who has lost his place in the Blues side and is out of contract in the summer. However, Le Saux has advised Shaw to remain at Southampton and continue his development.
“I’ve been watching a lot,” he said. “He has the qualities of an attacking full-back who has a lot of pace and a lot of energy. His defending is getting better as he gets more experienced. He’s still very young and the more experience he gains for his club and at under-21 level, I feel he’s in the right place and his development is crucial.”
Shaw only signed a new contract at the Saints last July, and this is intended to keep the 18-year-old at the club for five years. Manager Mauricio Pochettino made it clear throughout the January window that the teenager is not for sale, and the Argentine also expects the £20million-rated player to begin next season as part of his squad.
Le Saux, meanwhile, began his career at Chelsea having developed through their youth ranks, and had two separate spells at the club which was only interrupted by a four-year stint at Blackburn Rovers. When he left Stamford Bridge for the second time in 2003, he joined Southampton where he spent the final two years of his career.
