Southampton have already spoken with Mark Hughes as he has looks firm favourite to take charge of the club.

The Saints sacked Mauricio Pellegrino on Monday evening following a run of just one win in 17 games.

Marco Silva was strongly linked, but now I understand that Hughes has already had contact with the club.

Hughes, out of work after being sacked by Stoke earlier this year, has good links with the club having played for them for two seasons up to 2000.

Now the former Wales, Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers boss is closing in on a quick return to management.

Bookmakers now make Hughes odds-on to land the role with Ladbrokes pricing him at 2/5.

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “Southampton will have to act quick to save their season and the early signs point towards a swift Prem return for Hughes.”