MANAGER Russell Martin confirmed he is taking a hands-on approach with transfers and admitted three positions Saints are looking to strengthen.
Saints have already made seven signings this summer but expect multiple ins and outs before the end of the window on Friday, August 30.
They have been linked with attacking midfielders, wingers and a number nine, despite accepting they do not have "huge amounts" of money to spend.
Martin confirmed Saints want to add in each of those areas as he discussed the club's transfer strategy for the remaining weeks of the window.
Speaking at their training camp in Spain, Martin told the Daily Echo: "It has been a focus of mine, along with the owners, Phil Parsons and everyone else.
Whoops, sorry Sam Edozie - I've stitched you up there! 😬 He actually backs Joe Aribo all the way on Warzone, I misheard.
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) July 27, 2024
They'll be fine. The duo are good mates and both targeting a big season back in the Premier League. Interview feature.#SaintsFC
"Between every training session, there's been a meeting with the ownership group about recruiting - pretty much every day.
"If not, it's a phone call or some phone calls. I expect we'll do a fair bit of business out and in but it takes time when you want certain players and the right ones."
He continued: "I'm really comfortable and happy with what we are working on and how we're going about it. You've just got to hope that it all pays off."
Saints are hoping to sign Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley and have been interested in the likes of Sunderland winger Jack Clarke and young striker Liam Delap.
Martin confirmed these are three areas of focus for recruitment, explaining: "Che Adams has left, so that makes sense.
Saints must replace former striker Che Adams this summer (Image: PA)
"David Brooks, who was a really good performer for us, and Ryan Fraser have left, so that makes sense. Then, Stuart Armstrong and Joe Rothwell have gone.
"It's natural. The gaps have opened up with players that were really effective for us and had a good impact.
"I think it's only natural we want to try and make sure we replace them with enough quality, and good enough quality to be in the Premier League."
Saints will also look to sign a goalkeeper if Mat Lis leaves the club again this summer - which Martin has already slated as a possibility.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel