Southampton seem convinced that Nathaniel Clyne will snub Manchester United in the summer and commit his future at the St Mary’s Stadium by putting pen to paper on a new deal.
The right-back’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2015-16 campaign, and the club are keen to hold on to the talented defender, rather than cash in.
READ MORE:
Manchester United transfer gossip
Southampton transfer rumours
Manchester United have reportedly been eyeing an offer for Clyne, as they are short of options in the full-back position, but Southampton’s Head of Football Development, Les Reed, insists that the signs are promising that an extension will be signed by the 24-year-old.
Reed revealed in an interview with talkSPORT, “These contract negotiations are never just one meeting, where everything is done and sorted out.
“You have to bear in mind, especially with Nathaniel, that we want him to focus on the last few games of the season,” he continued.
“That’s why you’ll get players saying ‘let’s wait until the end of the season’.
“That’s quite normal and he’s very happy. He’s managed to force himself into the England squad and is showcasing his talents.
“I’d be very surprised if there wasn’t speculation about him but, at the moment, the signs are good.”
The Saints have been in superb form, having been a threat to the top four, which has surprised Premier League supporters following the departures of a number of first-team stars from the club last summer.
As a result of their impressive performances this term, the club are, unsurprisingly, eager not to meddle with the team.