Saints closing in on Puel

Southampton are close to appointing Claude Puel to replace Ronald Koeman as manager, according to reports in English and French media.

Executive Director of Football Les Reed has been at the helm of the recruitment drive to find Ronald Koeman's successor after the Dutchman left St. Mary's for Goodison Park.

Managers such as Rudi Garcia, Manuel Pellegrini and Vítor Pereira have all been linked to the Saints job but now it looks as though Puel is the man that Reed wants to take over the managerial position at Southampton.

The former Nice and Monaco coach is known for playing attractive football and playing youth players, two aspects that made him a standout candidate for Les Reed as well has his ability to succeed on a small budget.

According to reports from the Telegraph and L'equipe, Saints could announce the appointment of Puel in the coming days. This will be in time for the start of pre-season with those not involved in the Euros due back on the 1st of July.

If you want to find out more about the Frenchman, then click here to read Tommy Scott's article on the man we're likely to see in the St. Mary's dugout in August.