SAINTS defender Armel Bella-Kotchap is attracting interest from Germany's top clubs according to recent reports.

The 21 year old is yet to feature in a competitive game under new boss Martin as he continues to work his way back to full fitness.

Several outlets have reported that Bayern Munich are to join Borussia Dortmund in the race for the German International, however, no deal has been struck with Southampton so far.

Bella-Kotchap played 24 times for Saints in the Premier League last season after making a £9millon switch from VFL Bochum in June, 2022.

The Telegraph has previously reported that Bella-Kotchap’s contract contains a relegation release clause priced at £25million.

Speaking earlier this month, Martin revealed his desire to keep the young German defender this summer.

He said: “Armel just excites you by looking at him because of sheer size and physicality.

READ MORE: Southampton's Martin on Bella-Kotchap whereabouts and defender plans

“When you look at him, he is an imposing guy. When I shook his hand on the first day I thought he was huge. He possesses unbelievable athleticism and physicality.

“I think he’s had a really tough time of it. He’s come here and got injured and it’s a long summer when you see everyone here there and every, most of them probably in Dubai.

"It’s difficult when you’re here, working with the physios every day. It’s a tough period for him and there’s a bit of noise around his future, as a young man.

“If he is here, I will be really excited to work with him because I think he can definitely help us and we can help him.

"It’s in his own interest and our own to get him fit and see what happens then.”