The countdown is on for Saints to tie star midfielder Adam Lallana to a new contract.

Lallana, who broke the 20 goal barrier from midfield last season and has returned to fine form following knee surgery in this campaign, is out of contract next summer.

Speculation as to his future has already started to rev up again as he could even begin contract talks with other clubs in January if his St Mary’s deal is not extended.

Saints will be desperate to keep hold of Lallana who is one of the hottest prospects outside of the top flight.

His quick feet, excellent technical ability and eye for goal have seen a number of clubs cast a covetous eye towards him in the past.

However, Saints have always been in a position to turn away potential suitors but will be wary of the potential of having the matter taken out of their hands with his contract slowly running down.

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Though Lallana, 22, would not leave for nothing at the end of the season due to his age and the fact he is considered a home grown youngster, a summer move could go to a tribunal to set a fee whereby Saints would have to settle for what would probably be far less than his market value.

Birmingham City have been linked with a £3m swoop for Lallana in January and are probably the first of several clubs that will be rumoured to have an interest.

Saints will also take into consideration that as part of the deal that brought Lallana to Saints as a youngster, they will owe Bournemouth some 25 per cent of any fee they receive.

Lallana has become a firm favourite with Saints fans for his performances from the left side of midfield and has repeatedly said he is happy at the club when transfer speculation has arisen in the past.

But his representatives are sure to try and hammer out the best deal possible for their charge, particularly if other clubs are interested.

Saints boss Nigel Adkins responded to the talk about the Blues’ possible interest in Lallana last week by saying that he loves transfer speculation because it proves that you are doing well as a club when other teams are linked with your players.