SAINTS manager Russell Martin slammed "irresponsible" leaks surrounding defender Armel Bella-Kotchap's health in Germany.

Reports from the 22 year old's native country suggested a permanent transfer to Hoffenheim could be in jeopardy due to a "heart problem".

Martin insisted the club had known for some time that Bella-Kotchap had a standard surgery on his heart and there is no immediate threat to his health.

The boss added that Bella-Kotchap is fine and hopes the £12.8million transfer to take the Germany international back to the Bundesliga goes ahead.

Speaking ahead of Southampton's Premier League opener at Newcastle United, Martin said: "He is in Hoffenheim and it's progressing.

"Armel, because it mentions the heart, is probably a scarier story than it is. He's had a really standard procedure on it. They will investigate and do more tests.

"It's never really caused him a problem. We've all been aware of it for quite some time and I expect and I hope for Armel that it will all be fine and it will happen."

Martin continued: "Armel is fine, completely fine. I think it's a really good deal for all parties so hopefully for him, for us and for Hoffenheim it all goes through.

"If it doesn't, we'll reassess and we'll get back here - but there is no imminent threat to Armel and his health and safety and all that stuff.

"How that was leaked and how it came out without context and detail is a little bit irresponsible I think because it doesn't do the player any favours at all."

Saints will make a small profit on Bella-Kotchap following his 2022 arrival from VFL Bochum for under £10million - after also pocketing a loan fee from PSV.

Bella-Kotchap has made 26 appearances for the St Mary's side and won his first senior international cap with Germany in September 2022.