Nathaniel Clyne’s long-term future at Southampton has been cast in doubt after manager Ronald Koeman admitted the club face a battle to retain his services.
Manchester United are set to step up their interest in the England international, with Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez potentially included in a deal worth close to +32 million.
Mauricio Pochettino is also keen on a reunion with Clyne at Tottenham and Chelsea have also been linked, but Koeman has insisted Southampton will do “everything” to prevent another highly rated youngster leaving St Mary’s.
“We are still trying to keep Clyne in the club. We know it’s not easy as maybe there is some interest,” Koeman told BBC Radio Solent.
“At the moment, there is not a serious bid for whichever player in the team, but we’ll do everything to keep them.”
Koeman is also seeking clarity on the future of on-loan Atletico Madrid defender Toby Alderweireld.
The Liga champions’ sporting director Jose Luis Perez recently stated that the Belgian would return to the Spanish capital next season.
“Always, you like to have an answer as soon as possible,” he added. “It’s more the business of Les Reed [Southampton’s director of football].
“We know he wants to be at Southampton. I’ve read a comment that the technical director at Atletico Madrid wants him to return, so we will know in some weeks what will happen with Toby.”