ALAN Pardew refused to comment on speculation linking Saints with a move for want-away Nottingham Forest striker Nathan Tyson.

Saints are said to be one of a few clubs interested in Tyson, who was handed his professional debut by Pardew in 2000 when the pair were at Reading.

Saints have reportedly had a £400,000 bid for the 28-year-old rejected, with Forest believed to be wanting at least double that.

But, when asked about Tyson, Pardew said: “We don’t say anything about players we are interested and I don’t want to comment on players that other people mention.

“That is nothing to do with us.

“The only thing Southampton fans need to know is when we come out with a message you can be sure it’s a true message and it’s somebody that we want and are after.”

Pardew is keen to strengthen his squad, though, with attacking additions his priority.

But he has urged Saints fans to be patient as he waits for the perfect moment to make his move.

“We have been watching the market,” he said.

“There’s not been much movement and we are trying not to pitch in too early and maybe a better player becomes available and we miss him.

“So it is all about time and I don’t want Southampton fans to get too concerned.

“They are waiting to see where we pitch in and hopefully we do that in the next couple of weeks when I think a few managers, like myself, will be looking now to improve the squad.

“Getting nearer the time of the kick-off you start thinking ‘I don’t think he is going to contribute for me’ and ‘I need to change him and get somebody in and get him out’.

“I’m the same as every other manager now, “I now know what I have got and what I need to improve.”

Pardew also revealed that goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski, picured left, who impressed as a second half substitute against Sutton United, is on the verge of signing a new contract.

“Bart, he did terrific in the second-half and he is very close to signing a new deal,” Pardew said.

“That will be a bonus for Southampton.”