Southampton are reportedly eyeing a move for £15m-rated Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi.
After losing Morgan Schneiderlin to Manchester United during the summer, and with Victor Wanyama being linked with Tottenham, Saints boss Ronald Koeman is understood to be looking at alternatives, which include the Spaniard.
The South Coast side have made a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign, picking up two points from the first three matches, conceding five goals in the process, and the Dutch manager could sign a defensive-minded midfielder even if Wanyama stays, although a loan move would be more likely in that instance.
Illarramendi made 41 appearances in all competitions for Real last term, but is now understood to be surplus to requirements under Rafael Benitez.