Southampton are struggling to stop Manchester United in their interest in signing Nathaniel Clyne.
The departures of Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana last summer saw Southampton lose a number of notable top quality players, but boss Ronald Koeman has guided the Southern side to an impressive Champions League hope.
However, Manchester United, who signed left-back Shaw, are now interested in right-back Nathaniel Clyne, who has been impressing this season for both club and country.
The 23-year-old is currently in talks over a new deal at St. Mary’s, however, it is understood that talks have now softened after United boss Louis van Gaal enquired about his asking price.
The Dutch boss is keen to find a regular right back after using both Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young in that position this season.
United failed to sign Clyne from Crystal Palace in 2012 after Southampton beat them to his signature, but officials at the club are concerned that they may lose the youngster in January.
Liverpool are also in contention to place a bid having made good contact with the Saints during last summer when they signed Lambert and Lallana.