Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier feels they need a new centre-half signing.
Nigel Adkins' side still has the worst defensive record in the Premier League this season after conceding 32 goals in 16 matches.
"Results have picked up but I would be looking at a couple of centre-backs in January to be honest," Le Tissier told the Daily Echo. "It's been a problem area and if anywhere is going to be strengthened it has to be there for me.
"We're just a little but short in that department, there isn't a great deal of cover there if the first-choice centre-backs get injured.
"After a very shaky start Jose Fonte has grown into the Premier League, he's improved as the season has gone on. But there are still question marks as to whether [Maya] Yoshida can cut it in this league.
"From that point of view I would be looking for a centre-half to play alongside Fonte."