SAINTS are reportedly set to sign free agent Willy Caballero on a short-term deal to ease their goalkeeping crisis.

The Athletic this evening reported the 40-year-old will join the St Mary’s outfit, having been without a club since leaving Chelsea in the summer.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men were without Fraser Forster for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Brighton due to injury – with regular stopper Alex McCarthy also injuring his hamstring in that match.

That left Harry Lewis as the only fit gloveman, with just three senior games with Saints under his belt coming five years ago.

Capped by Argentina five times at senior level, former Manchester City keeper Caballero has reportedly been training with AFC Wimbledon in a bid to keep up his fitness.

Speaking to Goal back in August, he revealed why he decided to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

"Some people didn’t understand why I turned down a contract as a third goalkeeper," Caballero said. "I believe I am playing at this age because I have always been motivated.

"As a third goalkeeper last season, I found it really tough. It was my first season as a third-choice goalkeeper.

“I was losing my motivation at Chelsea. I believe for this reason to not renew with Chelsea, to try to find a new challenge to keep that passion alive inside."

The Athletic claim Saints acted quickly to wrap up a deal with the veteran stopper on Sunday.