Should Southampton pursue this January move after the latest Keven Schlotterbeck news?

Southampton may have to reconsider their defensive plans for January after Keven Schlotterbeck suffered a worrying injury during the narrow defeat to Preston North End. The German centre-back was forced off at Deepdale with what appeared to be a dislocated shoulder, leaving the club waiting to discover how long he could be unavailable.

It is an unfortunate setback for a defender who had made a positive start to life in the Championship. Schlotterbeck had scored twice for Southampton and was averaging 4.7 duels won per match. His physical presence has been valuable in a demanding division, where defenders are regularly tested by direct attacking play.

With the German potentially facing time on the sidelines, head coach Tonda Eckert and the recruitment team may need to consider whether additional cover is required. One possible solution could be to revive their previous interest in Norwegian defender Henrik Falchener, whose name was reportedly on Southampton’s list during the summer.

Preston North End v Southampton – Sky Bet Championship 2026/27 | Matt Watson/GettyImages

Could Southampton return for Henrik Falchener?

Southampton were understood to have attempted to sign Falchener before the current campaign. Their interest reportedly developed into an £8 million bid, but Viking rejected the offer. The Saints subsequently turned to Schlotterbeck, signing the German from Augsburg for a considerably smaller fee of around £3 million.

Schlotterbeck’s injury could prompt Southampton to examine whether another approach for Falchener is possible when the January window opens. However, such a move would be ambitious, particularly because the club could need to spend a significant amount halfway through the season.

Falchener’s reputation has continued to grow since Southampton first considered signing him. The Norwegian defender has become a Champions League goalscorer with Viking, helping his team record a 4-1 victory over Sabah earlier in the month.

His performances in the Norwegian top flight have also highlighted his strength in physical contests. Falchener is averaging 6.3 duels won per match this season, a figure that could appeal to a Southampton side seeking defensive authority and strength.

There may, however, be competition for his signature. Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has suggested that Premier League clubs have monitored the defender, alongside teams from the Bundesliga and Serie A. That interest could make it difficult for Southampton to persuade him to move to the Championship, particularly if he believes a top-flight opportunity is available.

If the Saints completed the signing, the prospect of pairing Falchener with Schlotterbeck could be exciting. Both defenders offer physical qualities that could help Southampton handle the demands of the Championship. However, the German’s recovery timeline would be important in deciding whether that partnership could become realistic during the second half of the season.

Zach Abbott offers an immediate alternative

Southampton do not necessarily have to spend heavily to cover Schlotterbeck’s absence. They already have an option in Zach Abbott, who came on for the injured defender against Preston and delivered an encouraging performance.

The Nottingham Forest loanee showed that he could handle the physical challenge presented by the hosts. Abbott won all of his duels, recording a 100 per cent success rate, and completed 66 accurate passes as Southampton tried to build from the back.

His display offered evidence that he could be trusted with more responsibility if Schlotterbeck is unavailable for an extended period. Abbott has had to be patient while waiting for opportunities, but his performance at Deepdale could strengthen his case for a regular place.

There is still uncertainty surrounding Abbott’s loan arrangement. Reports suggest Nottingham Forest are unhappy with his limited playing time and intend to review the agreement when the winter transfer window arrives. Forest could decide to recall him if they believe his development would be better served elsewhere.

Should that happen, Southampton would lose a player who has demonstrated that he can provide useful cover. The club might then have to enter the market for another centre-back, potentially targeting someone who could partner Schlotterbeck once the German has recovered.

January could shape Southampton’s promotion push

Falchener would represent an ambitious solution, but his reported price, growing reputation and interest from clubs in stronger leagues could make the transfer difficult. Southampton may have to consider alternative targets if a renewed move for the Norwegian proves unrealistic.

The January window nevertheless offers the Saints an opportunity to strengthen their squad for the promotion challenge. Defensive cover is one concern following Schlotterbeck’s injury, while improving their striker options is also expected to feature in the club’s wider recruitment considerations.

For now, Abbott appears capable of stepping in, although the situation could change if Forest intervene. Much will depend on Schlotterbeck’s medical assessment and the decisions made by all parties before the window opens. Southampton must weigh the immediate need for cover against the longer-term value of any signing.

The club’s choices could prove decisive in determining its momentum after Christmas.