USA defender Aaron Long almost joined West Ham in the summer

Southampton have been offered the chance to sign USA and New York Red Bulls centre-back Aaron Long, Sky Sports News understands.

West Ham wanted to sign Long last summer but he could not get a work permit in order for the defender to complete the switch to the Premier League.

Long now qualifies for a work permit because he has been playing regularly for USA and scored in the 4-1 victory over Canada on Saturday.

Marseille are also interested in signing Long in January, and he is believed to have a $6m release clause in his contract.

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When does the January transfer window open?

As the January transfer window inches ever closer, clubs across the Premier League, Europe and beyond will be identifying potential transfer targets and holding discussions with clubs and agents over future deals.

At this traditionally difficult time to make big moves, the start of the new year looks set to be frantic for a host of top Premier League clubs.

Here, Sky Sports provides you with all you need to know about the 2019/20 mid-season transfer window.

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There will also be the return of the Transfer Talk Podcast and some exciting new features coming your way...

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