SAINTS have made an offer for Mainz striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to reports in L'Equipe.

Mateta, 21, is said to be courted by the south coast club and fellow Premier League rivals Newcastle United.

The two sides have reportedly made an opening offer for the striker, only for the Bundesliga outfit to reject them.

It's suggested that the offers were between £18-£22 million, with Mainz holding out for at least £30 million.

Despite L'Equipe's report, Mainz chief Rouven Schroder has intimated that the player won't be for sale, telling Kicker: “How can we demand a transfer fee if the player is not on the market for us at all?

“We are very pleased with the development of Jean-Philippe and look forward to the new 19/20 season with him.”

Mateta joined the Bundesliga side last year from Lyon on a four-year deal.

He made 36 appearances during his first season at Mainz, scoring 14 goals.

Saints have already made their mark in this transfer window by agreeing a £14 million fee for Standard Liege forward Moussa Djenepo.

The Daily Echo reported that terms over a five-year deal have been agreed but the club are just waiting on the striker obtaining his work permit.

However, it's understood that Saints don't see this as being a problem and expect to formally announce Djenepo as their player this week.

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has already spoken about his plans to bolster his attacking department with pace, which is something that the 20-year-old Mali international has in abundance.