SAINTS are expected to take their time over replacing Ronald Koeman in a bid to find a lasting fit for the club.

As far as Saints are concerned, Koeman’s move to Everton is done, with around £5m in compensation set to come their way, writes ADAM LEITCH.

But no official announcement can be made until Everton have tied up the finer details at their end.

It leaves Saints in a strange situation with somebody who is technically still their manager, but clearly not for much longer.

However, it does give them a bit of breathing space, which they have been using to start the search for a new manager.

Saints are believed to have already drawn up a shortlist of candidates for the post, and will start the process of making contact and sounding out potential replacements for Koeman.

It took the club more than a fortnight to appoint Koeman following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino two summers ago, and there is no need for them to hurry the process this time round either.

The first team squad are not back until the start of July, with those involved in the Euros not returning until mid-July.

Also, with it being a summer with a major tournament, there is rarely little transfer business to be done until it concludes.

Saints have given thought to transfer targets already, but will want to wait until a new manager is appointed before doing anything.

Given the time of year, that will not threaten any of their potential moves.

There is still likely to be an appointment over the next fortnight, but the vital thing for Saints is to make the correct decision.

They face a choice between going for another manager who uses the club as a stepping stone, or whether to try and break that mould and try and find somebody likely to commit for a longer period of time.

Names linked with job so far include Manuel Pellegrini, Eddie Howe, Unai Emery and David Moyes.

There should not be too much disruption in terms of backroom staff with Koeman’s brother and assistant manager, Erwin, and fitness coach Jan Kluitenberg set to join him at Goodison Park, but Sammy Lee and Dave Watson expected to stay at St Mary’s.

Saints are also optimistic that Koeman’s departure won’t cause any player disruption.

Victor Wanyama still has yet to sign a new contract offer which has been on the table for months, and with one year remaining on his current deal he is expected to be sold if there is an acceptable offer and he doesn’t have a change of heart.

The Daily Echo understands reports that Sadio Mane is unsettled and considering putting in a transfer request are incorrect.