Saints fans have taken to Facebook to share their thought on news that captain Jose Fonte may be allowed to leave the club next month.

The reaction has been mixed, with some saying Saints will be OK with Fonte, as fellow defender Virgil van Dijk has proved his worth this season.

However, others have criticised the club, saying the captain – who has been with the club since 2010, when Saints were in League 1 – “deserves to be treated with more respect”.

Martin Boorman said: “As I understand, the club offered him a salary increase but no new contract. Fonte wanted an extension to his 18 months.

“My view is that he has been here from the start and fully deserves a big pay out and a longer contract as pay back for all he has given.”

Matthew Knight added: “I don't get Saints fans saying it's good business! Good business for who? You can’t get a better replacement for £5m.”

Spencer Houghton commented: “Sad day if Jose walks out on us for a big final pay day when he has obviously more money than most of us can dream about.”

“Let him leave for £10m, he's old now… Yeah, Swansea said the same thing about Ashley Williams and look at them. Do not sell him,” said Jamie Leach.

However, Stu Davies feels it could be a “fab bit of business”, adding: “Right to sell in Jan, he is getting older and if we can cash in, do it, but not unless we have a good replacement!”

Simon Mandy Austin said: “Yoshida has been better than him this season, so if he wants to go, let him go.”

Ian Doherty commented: “As great as he has been, I think we've started to see his decline this season. And with van Dijk dominating our defence and capable cover in Yoshida, I think we'll be OK.”

Following the news, Fonte took to Instagram to clarify his situation: “Just to set the record straight I did NOT reject a new contract, in fact I have been informed by Southampton that they are NOT offering me a new contract.

“My focus is on Thursday helping us win the game! #wemarchon.”