Southampton could be saved by two Irish businessmen.

The relegated League One outfit's administrator Mark Fry refuses to name the two men involved.

But he is hoping to thrash out a deal that would give them time to study the situation at the club more closely.

Saints went into administration before the end of the season, and were then relegated to League One.

Fry said: "We have a number of people at the final stages and we are trying to get them all over the line. I am hopeful it will be within the next 48 hours."

Despite the Irish interest, the Pinnacle consortium, which includes former Saints favourite Matt Le Tissier, is still trying to put together the final pieces for their bid.

Pinnacle's Tony Lynam confirmed: "We are still at the table and still talking to the administrator."