SOUTHAMPTON will reportedly launch a bid for winger Jeremy Doku as they bid to fight their way out of relegation.
The highly-rated winger is currently at Rennes after a £23m move in 2020.
While injuries have hampered his progress in France, Doku has demonstrated flashes of quality and goal-threat.
Foot Mercato report that the Saints are bidding to bring him to St Mary's to give their struggling side a boost.
The Premier League side are believed to be enquiring about his availability.
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Southampton will be hoping he can bring some additional sharpness to their goal-shy forward line.
But the report adds that Rennes will be unwilling to let him go easily.
Doku scored his first goal for more than a year in the French Cup over the weekend as Rennes won 2-1 away at 10-man Bordeaux.
But he is yet to register a goal or assist in the league in 10 appearances this season.
Despite his misfiring, Rennes are enjoying another solid season in Ligue 1.
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They are currently fourth, two points behind Marseille who occupy the final Champions League spot.
While they aim for Europe, Southampton are toiling in the Premier League.
The south-coast sit bottom of their league, three points away from safety, having lost their last six games in the division.
Nathan Jones was brought in to replace Ralph Hassenhuttl in November but has failed to turn things around, losing all four of his league games.
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But a surprise FA Cup win at Crystal Palace will provide hope to fans that a great escape is still possible.
Southampton have already been busy in the window and have reportedly signed Argentine midfielder Carlos Alcaraz.