Southampton are close to signing former Swansea City star Ryan Manning as their first arrival of the summer, according to talkSPORT.
Manning is reportedly on the south coast at Staplewood and will sign a deal with the Saints. He left Swansea at the end of his contract and can join any club on a free transfer.
Southampton have not raced out of the blocks in transfers this summer but are expected to step up their activity over the next few weeks.
Their priority was appointing a new manager following the departure of Ruben Selles. They brought in Russell Martin from Swansea, and he has the task of returning them to the Premier League.
Swansea finished tenth in the Championship last season, but they finished strongly with a nine-game unbeaten run.
Martin was undoubtedly behind the deal for Manning, who bagged five goals and ten assists in 43 appearances last term.
Leeds United looked close to securing Manning’s signature, but the Saints have moved ahead of them in the race.
He offers versatility with his ability to cover several positions in the line-up.
Southampton will likely move for West Ham United midfielder Flynn Downes after signing Manning.
Downes worked with Martin at Swansea, and they are trying to see if they can bring him to the south coast.
The Hammers are interested in Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse who is keen to stay in the top flight.
Southampton have already sold striker Mislav Orsic as they prepare for life in the second tier.
They must also sell several other stars to recoup some money to finance their summer transfer business.
