Southampton have approached Lille for defender Kevin Malcuit.
Sky Italia says Saints are ready to challenge Napoli for the versatile defender.
Malcuit can play at centre-half and fullback and has long been a target for English clubs.
Saints have now made contact with LOSC about kicking off negotiations over a fee for Malcuit.
The 27 year-old only moved to Lille only a year ago from St Etienne.