Southampton transfer news: Saints target Chelsea starlet Patrick Bamford - reports

Bamford won Football League player of the year last week

Patrick Bamford of Middlesbrough celebrates scoring the opening goal with Enrique Garcia (GETTY IMAGES)

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has targeted Middlesbrough loan star Patrick Bamford, according to reports.

The 21-year-old has scored 17 goals as 'Boro eye a return to the Premier League, but the Chelsea loanee is likely to move on in the summer.

Bamford has spoken about his desire to play for the Blues in the future, but the London club's track record with youth would suggest he will need to leave Stamford Bridge.

The striker has previously said he would consider another loan move next season rather than be sitting on the sidelines at Chelsea, and that has alerted a host of clubs.

Middlesbrough goalscorers Patrick Bamford and Kike celebrate their earlier Cup success at the Etihad (Getty)

While Chelsea would be hesitant to loan Bamford to a Premier League rival, it would appear to be the next stage in his development after spells in League One and the Championship.

The Saints have also been linked with a move for Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy, who scored the Foxes' winner at Burnley yesterday.

However it would seem unlikely that Vardy would leave the King Power Stadium, especially if they manage to secure their Premier League status.