Saints have lined up a possible hat-trick of new signings in time for the new season.

And that is probably the strongest evidence yet that they will confirm Stuart Gray as their new manager at tomorrow's board meeting.

The board have already backed the caretaker boss to the tune of £750,000 to bring in Anders Svensson even before appointing a full-time successor to Glenn Hoddle.

While they might have supported Gray's judgement on one player to avoid missing out on a bargain it is unlikely they would press ahead with three more potential transfers if they were not preparing to give him the job.

Saints are keeping their targets under close wraps to avoid alerting other clubs but it is thought one is a versatile defender to provide extra cover.

They are also looking at bringing in a left-sided player to replace Hassan Kachloul who will complete his move to Aston Villa early next week once his Southampton contract expires.

The third is a young foreign striker who will be a prospect for the future but the deals are complex and will take some time to resolve.

Chairman Rupert Lowe confirmed: "We are looking to strengthen the squad with two or possibly three players.

"It is not always advisable to bring in too many too quickly and we already have a good squad but if we get the chance to bring in quality at the right price then we will do it.

"We have said all along that the hunt for new additions to the squad would not end while we decide who our next manager will be. I am hoping to have the first one in fairly soon and then we think we need to strengthen the defence as well so we will probably do that too.

"Our defence had a fine season, but we looked a bit thin when injuries kicked in. It can't hurt for a bit more competition and cover."

Lowe, though, remained tight-lipped on the managerial situation but he hopes to make a formal announcement on Friday when Gray is likely to be confirmed as boss with a new coach alongside him.

It is thought former Arsenal boss Bruce Rioch has now been interviewed for that role but he will want to stay in management.

Lowe thinks highly of the current coaching staff and is not prepared to see the backroom team torn apart.

There is one other dark horse in contention but his chances are said to be receding to leave Gray with a clear run.

Lowe added: "We have been very diligent and looked at every option. We hope to deliver a solution by Monday when the players report back for pre-season."