Southampton ‘agree one-and-a-half year deal with former Serie A boss’ with shock new candidate ‘flying to the UK TODAY as Saints look to seal appointment in time for Fulham clash’

Southampton are reportedly set to appoint a former Serie A boss as their new manager. 

The Saints are on the hunt for a new manager after Russell Martin was sacked last Sunday with the club rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table. 

The South Coast club have so far claimed just one win from 16 matches on their return to the top flight and are nine points adrift of safety. 

According to The Athletic, Southampton have reached an agreement to appoint former Roma boss Ivan Juric as their new manager. 

The outlet claims that the 49-year-old is expected to fly out to the UK today (Friday) with a view to being on the touchline for Sunday’s clash with Fulham. 

The Croatian has agreed a deal until 2026 with a two-year option to extend.   

Juric was sacked from his role with Roma side last month after just three months in charge, having taken over from Daniel De Rossi in September. 

He left the side four points above the Serie A relegation zone and 20th in the Europa League table. 

It is said that Southampton view him as a strong character who makes teams difficult to beat though physical intensity and solid defensive structure.