SAINTS interest in Peterborough United defender Ronnie Edwards is at a very early stage, with only initial conversations happening at a number of clubs.

The 19-year-old centre-back has impressed in his first full season as a senior starter despite the Posh’s relegation from the Championship.

The former Barnet teenager made 34 appearances in the second division this campaign, alerting a number of Premier League clubs to his talent.

Edwards is expected leave Peterborough this summer, with Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace and Manchester United all having expressed an interest.

Daily Echo: Ronnie Edwards could make Peterborough a sizeable fee (Pic: PA)Ronnie Edwards could make Peterborough a sizeable fee (Pic: PA)

Saints are also among those clubs in admiring the youngster, but the Daily Echo understands all discussions are preliminary with little concrete at this stage.

The St Mary’s side are in the market for at least one centre-back this summer, with the likes of Chelsea’s Levi Colwill also on the lengthy shortlist.

Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens face uncertain futures with the club and could pave the way for defensive reinforcements.

Edwards is an England under-19 international and could be set to add to his four caps for the Young Lions at the UEFA Under-19 Championship next month.

Daily Echo: Ronnie Edwards on England under-19 duty (Pic: PA)Ronnie Edwards on England under-19 duty (Pic: PA)

Saints look set for a busy summer and are targeting players nearly all over the pitch, as they attempt to remedy a second consecutive Premier League slump.

Sport Republic have expressed a desire to continue Saints’ model of signing talented youngsters and giving them their first steps in top-flight football.

Tino Livramento is held up as the example of the richest success adopting this model, after the teenager cost the club just £5million to acquire from Chelsea last summer.

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