Southampton reach agreement for English-Congolese youngster Divin Mubama

Southampton have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Manchester City over a potential loan move for young striker Divin Mubama as the Championship club look to strengthen their attacking options.

Mubama, who was born in England and is of DR Congolese descent, is now considering another temporary move away from the Premier League champions as he seeks regular first-team football.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Southampton have agreed terms with the 21-year-old over a loan switch. Manchester City, however, have yet to give the deal their final approval as they assess the best next step for the forward’s development.

The move would provide Mubama with another opportunity to gain valuable senior experience after an underwhelming loan spell at Stoke City last season.

Difficult spell at Stoke

Mubama spent the 2025/26 campaign with Stoke, but struggled to establish himself as a consistent attacking threat.

The striker managed just five goals and one assist in 28 appearances across the season, numbers that left him with limited momentum heading back to his parent club.

With competition for places in Manchester City’s attack expected to remain intense, another loan has emerged as the most practical route for Mubama to secure regular minutes and continue his development.

Southampton could offer precisely that opportunity, with the club competing in the Championship and looking to build a squad capable of challenging at the top end of the division.

City yet to make final call

While Mubama has reportedly agreed to the proposed move, Manchester City are still considering whether Southampton represents the right destination for the striker.

The decision is expected to centre on the level of playing time and development opportunities available to the youngster, who remains under contract with the Premier League giants.

Southampton’s verbal agreement with Mubama represents a significant step towards completing the transfer, but the deal cannot be finalised until City give their approval.

For Mubama, the immediate priority is clear: find a club where he can play regularly, regain his confidence and demonstrate the qualities that convinced Manchester City to sign him.

A move to Southampton could give him another platform to do exactly that.