MANAGER Russell Martin insisted Southampton's decision to sign a new goalkeeper will be dictated by another keeper leaving this summer.

Saints currently have four senior goalkeepers on the books, including the injured Gavin Bazunu, who is expected to be out until 2025.

Alex McCarthy, 34, is currently viewed as first-choice at the club having signed a new two-year deal during the off-season.

Mateusz Lis, 27, and Joe Lumley, 29, are battling for second-choice, with the former playing the second half against Eastleigh on Friday.

Martin is a fan of Lis but the Polish shot-stopper is likely to want regular first-team football after a successful loan at Goztepe.

Alex McCarthy is viewed as first choice at Saints following his play-off heroicsAlex McCarthy is viewed as first choice at Saints following his play-off heroics (Image: Richard Crease) READ MORE: Bednarek and Walker-Peters offered new contracts as transfer stance explained

Southampton have been linked with various goalkeepers this summer and could sign a new first-choice should another keeper depart. 

Martin told the Daily Echo: "This situation will sort of open up in the next few weeks because I think Matty wants to play football.

"He had a really good season at Goztepe. As it stands, he's probably behind Alex. He's competing with Joe for that slot behind him because Alex is a top goalkeeper.

"So Matty and I will have a chat. He's been great. Honestly, he's beautiful to look at, but he's a brilliant, brilliant guy. I really like Matty.

"We only had him for four days last summer. So it's nice to spend some time with him and get to know him. He's popular with the group. He's a great pro.

"But I think his situation will be dictated by him and if he really wants to go and play football or stay here and really fight. I'll respect his decision either way.

"That will dictate what we do in the goalkeeping department. After what Alex did at the end of last season, I think he's earned the right to be first choice."

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He continued: "But as I said, if we lose one, and then someone else comes in, you just never know, do you? It's the same for any player in the squad.

"No one is guaranteed to play football. We lost out on signing a player last season because I couldn't guarantee that he would play football.

"I think any manager who can guarantee you that you will start every single game is probably not totally honest. I think it's impossible."