Southampton are in talks over a player partnership with Spain's Recreativo Huelva.

The People says the Saints want Segunda Division's Huelva to take young players the South Coast club sign from non-EC countries and who would be unable to get British permits.

Huelva are famous for being a nursery club for talented youngsters - with Manchester United's Antonio Valencia among their former 'pupils'.

The inventive move could be sealed shortly, with Southampton planning to add a new string to their bow as they prepare for life in the Premier League.