SAINTS chairman Nicola Cortese has been linked with a move to Italy.

The Swiss businessman has been approached by an unnamed Serie A club to join their board of directors, according to a report that was first carried on BBC Radio Solent this morning.

Radio Solent have a commercial deal with the club.

Mr Cortese, who does not speak directly to the Daily Echo at present, has given interviews to Radio Solent recently.

Mr Cortese joined the club as part of Markus Liebherr's takeover in the summer.

The news comes at the same time as the club's senior management are making news today for upsetting a local charity.

Southampton Football Club refused to comment when asked by the Daily Echo.