SAINTS have reportedly agreed a fee for Plymouth Argyle’s teenage prospect Jack Stephens.
The 17-year-old, who can play in defence or midfield, has been the subject of interest from a number of clubs.
Saints are said to have agreed an initial fee of £125,000 for the player, who can move outside of the transfer window as he is an apprentice.
However, Premier League clubs Newcastle and Sunderland are also supposedly interested in signing the youngster.
Stephens, who is a first year apprentice, has already turned down a £125,000 move to top-flight outfit Fulham, after spending four days with the London club last week.
If he does join Saints, the fee would be a welcome boost for the administrators at financially-troubled Argyle.
Stephens had been expected to play for Plymouth’s reserves, against Torquay, yesterday.
However, he travelled to Southampton instead and is set to spend the rest of the week with the club.
Stephens has made three starts and three substitute appearances for the Pilgrims this season.
He is the third youngest player ever to appear for the club, after making his debut aged 16 years and 234 days in a 3-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday last September.
Scource: Echo