Southampton in talks with former Lyon boss Claude Puel - Sky sources

Southampton are in talks with former Lyon, Monaco and Nice manager Claude Puel

Southampton are in talks with former Monaco and Lyon manager Claude Puel with a view to him being appointed as successor to Ronald Koeman by the end of the week, according to Sky sources.

The 54-year-old Frenchman, who spent his 17-year playing career with Monaco, is without a club after ending a four-season spell as Nice manager earlier this summer.

Puel guided Monaco to the Ligue 1 title in 2000 before moving on to Lille where he enjoyed a successful six years as manager.

The former defensive midfielder was then appointed as Lyon's manager in 2008 and was able to guide the club its first ever Champions League semi-final appearance in 2010.

However, he was sacked the following season after failing to mount a serious title challenge during his three seasons at the club.

Former manager Ronald Koeman left Southampton for Everton earlier this month

Puel is now the favourite to succeed Koeman, who left St Mary's in order to become Everton's new manager earlier this month.

The Saints have also been linked with Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, Walter Zenga and Fenerbahce coach Vitor Pereira.