Southampton are eyeing Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The Sun says Saints were keen on the England midfielder a year ago but lost out when Fulham borrowed him from Chelsea.

Loftus-Cheek, 25, has struggled for form with the Cottagers, scoring just once and registering no assists as Scott Parker's side were relegated.

Yet Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl remains a fan and is confident he can bring the best out of RLC should he land him in the close season.

The Austrian even namechecked Loftus-Cheek ahead of Saturday's home clash with Fulham when discussing the talent at Parker's disposal.