Southampton are passing on former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

The Mirror says Pellegrini has been ditched by Southampton in their search for a new manager – leaving the way clear for Frenchman Claude Puel.

Pellegrini, 62, was keen to continue his Premier League career at St Mary's after leaving Manchester City at the end of last season.

Fans were hoping to see the former Real Madrid and Villarreal boss, who won the title with City two years ago, named as Ronald Koeman's successor.

But after interviewing Pellegrini, the Saints hierarchy decided he did not fit the club's philosophy of ­developing young players.

They are now ready to turn to former Nice chief Puel, who was once Arsene Wenger's protege at ­Monaco.