Southampton have opened talks with former Monaco and Lyon manager Claude Puel, report Sky Sports.
The Saints are looking for a new manager following Ronald Koeman’s depature to Everton.
The likes of Manuel Pellegrini, Frank De Boer, Jurgen Klinsmann, Eddie Howe and former Everton manager Roberto Martinez have all been linked with the Southampton post, but it appears the south coast club have identified Puel as the man to succeed Koeman.
Puel guided Ligue 1 side Nice to a 4th place finish last season and has now completed his three-year contract with the French side.
The 54-year-old has only managed in France with Lyon, Lille and Monaco all on the Frenchman’s CV.
BREAKING NEWS: Sky Sources: Southampton in talks with former Monaco & Lyon manager Claude Puel. #SSNHQ
Puel had a successful playing career in France with Monaco where he won two Ligue 1 titles and three French Cups before going onto to win the country’s top football division as manager of the Red and Whites.
A rebuilding job at Southampton awaits Puel should he be appointed manager.
Victor Wanyama recently signed for Tottenham in an £11 million deal leaving a hole in the Saints’ midfield.
Meanwhile, Sadio Mane continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool, although the £40m price tag that Southampton have reportedly slapped on the 24-year-old might put off the Merseyside club.
Losing key players and managers has become a common theme at Southampton in recent seasons with Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana, Morgan Schneiderlin, Nathaniel Clyne and
Mauricio Pochettino all moving to other Premier League clubs.
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