Daniel Peretz finally speaks out on Southampton’s Spygate storm and hints at transfer future

Southampton goalkeeper Daniel Peretz has finally spoken out on the club’s damaging Spygate saga, admitting the fallout has been “hard” while also appearing to leave the door open over his long-term future at St Mary’s.

The Saints’ promotion dream came crashing down after Middlesbrough successfully pushed for sporting sanctions following the Spygate controversy. With Championship status and major financial rewards on the line, Southampton were ultimately removed from the play-offs, while Kim Hellberg’s side took their place. To make matters worse, the club were also hit with a four-point deduction for the 2026/27 campaign.

Amid the chaos, Peretz emerged as one of Southampton’s standout performers following his January loan arrival from Bayern Munich. The 25-year-old quickly won over supporters with a string of impressive displays, establishing himself as one of the Championship’s most reliable goalkeepers during the second half of the season.

Reports from Germany earlier this month suggested Southampton negotiated a purchase clause worth around £6–7 million as part of the loan agreement — a fee increasingly viewed as excellent value given his performances.

However, while Southampton are believed to be interested in making the move permanent, Peretz appears determined to carefully consider his next step before making any major decision.

Speaking to Israeli outlet Sport 5, the goalkeeper admitted the club’s play-off expulsion had been deeply frustrating, revealing players were informed of the outcome by sporting director Johannes Spors following the hearing.

Peretz described the situation as painful, acknowledging that after working so hard to earn promotion, having it taken away was difficult to accept. Still, he insisted there was little point dwelling on something beyond the squad’s control and suggested his focus is now shifting toward what comes next.

Importantly for Southampton supporters, the Israeli international made it clear he still holds strong feelings for the club despite the controversy. He spoke warmly about his time on the south coast, praising those around the club and admitting the squad had been through what felt like a “traumatic” experience.

His comments have inevitably fuelled speculation over a permanent transfer, although Peretz suggested he plans to spend time with family and reflect carefully before deciding where his future lies.

The situation remains complicated at Southampton, with reports also claiming some players are exploring possible legal action over lost promotion bonuses and salary increases linked to reaching the Premier League. Several squad members have already publicly addressed the scandal, and uncertainty continues to surround a number of futures heading into the summer transfer window.

For Southampton, though, securing Peretz permanently could prove one of the smartest pieces of business available. After keeping seven clean sheets in 20 appearances and consistently impressing between the posts, the reported fee looks increasingly like a bargain — if the Saints can convince him that his future still belongs at St Mary’s.