Saints have an interest in Brazilian striker Paulinho, according to his club’s president.

The 28-year-old scored 15 times in Serie A last season for Livorno, but is set to be sold this summer after they were relegated.

Top-flight Italian side Verona are keen on him, with Saints, West Ham and Stoke also said to have registered an interest.

Livorno president Aldo Spinelli is quoted in Italy as saying: “Not only Verona are looking at the player. West Ham, Stoke City and Southampton are tracking him in the Premier League, while in Dubai two clubs are interested.

"As far as we are concerned, one club is as good as another. It’s up to him now, so he will decide the destination then we will reach an agreement on the economic aspects.

"Paulinho will return to Italy tomorrow, then he’ll decide on his future. In January, our assessment was €10m, now the fee has decreased.”

Saints have recently completed the signing of Feyenoord striker Graziano Pelle, 29.