Premier League outfit Southampton have joined in the race to secure the services of Paul-Georges Ntep, according to reports from Calciomercato.

Rennes star Ntep has arguably been one of the standout players in the French Ligue 1 over the last few seasons and it has been no surprise to see a host of clubs such as Arsenal and Liverpool expressing their interest in signing the 24-year-old.

Ntep is now widely expected to be leaving Rennes at the end of his current contract next summer and according to reports emerging out of Italy, claims have been made that the Saints are keen on securing the services of the twice-capped French international.

Saints boss Claude Puel knows Ntep well form his time managing in France and has reportedly identified him as potential target to sign on a free next summer.