Former Stoke City boss Mark Hughes is reportedly in advanced talks to become the new manager of Southampton.

The coastal club began hunting for a new leader on Monday evening after parting company with Mauricio Pellegrino.

The Argentine had a dismal run in charge of the Saints as the team picked up just five wins in 30 Premier League games, leaving them one point above the relegation zone with eight matches left to play.

Hughes emerged as an early candidate to take the role, and now Sky Sports News is reporting that the 54-year-old is in advanced talks with Southampton.

The coach has been out of work since January when he was sacked by Stoke after the club dropped into the relegation zone.

Hughes already has a familiarity with Southampton, having played for them between 1998 and 2000.