Jermaine Wright is on his way back to Saints.

The midfielder, released by Leeds recently, will join Saints for pre-season training when George Burley's squad report back on June 26.

Burley, right, is then hoping to tie up a permanent deal for Wright, who enjoyed a three-month loan spell at St Mary's earlier this year, at the start of next month.

Burley this week returned to his desk after a short holiday and 30-year-old Wright is one of at least FIVE new signings he wants on board before the start of 2006/07.

Wright, who Burley signed for Ipswich from Crewe for £500,000 seven years ago, is available on a free after terminating his Leeds contract by mutual consent.

Burley said: "Jermaine is coming in for pre-season and we'll talk about things once pre-season starts. Once he is here we'll look at it as far as longer term is concerned, but I'm very hopeful we can push on with that."

For more news on Burley's transfer options see today's Daily Echo sport.