GOALKEEPER Alex McCarthy could leave Saints this month with interest reportedly from the Premier League and Saudi Pro League.

The 34 year old is out of favour and out of contract at St Mary's at the end of the 2023-24 season.

McCarthy has fallen to third-choice shot-stopper following the debut of summer signing Joe Lumley against Walsall in the FA Cup.

McCarthy's only appearance this season came in the 3-1 defeat to Gillingham in the EFL Cup first round back in August.

The Sun report that Premier League and Saudi clubs are keeping tabs on the situation of the former England goalkeeper. 

Daily Echo: Alex McCarthy was relegated to backup following Gavin Bazunu's arrival in 2022Alex McCarthy was relegated to backup following Gavin Bazunu's arrival in 2022

They add several clubs in the Middle East have registered interest while a couple of top Premier League sides are considering him for a squad role.

Talks have been regarding a free transfer at the end of his contract this season but the report states a move could happen this month.

McCarthy is said to be Southampton's highest-paid player and as a result the St Mary's side would be unlikely to demand a fee for his release in January.

McCarthy was the 2018 Southern Daily Echo player of the season - he has made 139 appearances for Saints since joining in 2016.