Saints have put transfer talks with potential signings on hold until they have resolved the future of manager Alan Pardew.

The Daily Echo understands Saints had already set the wheels in motion in attempts to strengthen their squad for a League One title push next season.

However, some of the targets have been told that any deals are on the backburner while the situation with Pardew is resolved.

Crunch talks between executive chairman Nicola Cortese and Pardew were planned for midday yesterday but were postponed, until today.

Though Pardew is adamant he wants to stay at St Mary’s, he fears the sack after his £3m spending spree failed to result in a play-off place, despite a ten-point deduction.

Saints continued their wall of silence yesterday as they completed a third day of refusing to take calls from the media.

Pardew was also unavailable for comment.

Most Saints fans are hoping the uncertainty comes to an end today.

But with supporters still unsure over Pardew’s future while the reason for the withdrawal of Saturday’s matchday programme and season ticket plans for the next campaign also remain shrouded in mystery, they are increasingly desperate to hear from the club.

Mike O’Callaghan, from the Southampton Independent Supporters Association, said: “I would be flabbergasted if Pardew left.

“It would be a total farce, just when we thought everything was looking rosy again and there was light at the end of the tunnel.

“Nicola Cortese should listen to the fans, because we all know what Alan Pardew has done.

“Even Mourinho would have struggled to do what Pardew has done, given what he inherited and the mentality some people had.

“Cortese’s silence is deafening."

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