SAINTS have had a loan bid rejected for Liverpool central defender Mamadou Sakho, according to the Mirror.

The national newspaper report that Saints were keen on bringing in Sakho on a temporary deal, but the Reds are “only interested in letting him leave permanently”.

The 26-year-old, who has a £20m price tag, has been heavily linked with a move to St Mary’s during this month’s transfer window, with the France international earmarked as a replacement for wantaway captain Jose Fonte.

Claude Puel admitted after last night’s 1-0 victory over Norwich in their FA Cup third round replay that Fonte is investigating an “opportunity” to leave.

This morning’s reports by Sky Sports indicate that West Ham are leading the chase for the Portuguese international’s signature.

Talks are said to be taking place between the clubs, although a deal for the Saints skipper is not thought to be nearing a conclusion.

Hammers boss Slaven Bilic said: "[Fonte is] not having a medical today. We are not talking about transfers, we are working on some though.

"There are one or two players we need, it won't be easy, but we are trying. Hopefully have something to announce in 24 hours."

Fonte has been told he won’t play for Saints while his future is in doubt.

The 33-year-old has asked the leave St Mary’s after rejecting an offer of a pay rise as well as a new contract.