Southampton are hoping to lure Alex McCarthy from Crystal Palace.

Reports from Sky Sports suggest that the Saints are in discussions with the Eagles regarding a permanent transfer for the 26-year-old goalkeeper.

New Saints boss Claude Puel is eager to find back-up for number one Fraser Forster following the retirement of veteran Kelvin Davis and departure of Maarten Stekelenburg who has linked up with Ronald Koeman at Everton after spending last term on loan at St Mary's from Fulham.

Alan Pardew signed French gloveman Steve Mandanda from Marseille this summer meaning he has three experienced keepers including Wales number one Wayne Hennessey and Julian Speroni.

Former Reading man McCarthy only arrived at Palace from QPR last summer, making just seven appearances for the South London club.