Ronald Koeman: 'Southampton face battle to keep Morgan Schneiderlin'

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has conceded that the club faces a battle to keep hold of Morgan Schneiderlin this summer.

Chelsea were the latest club to be linked with a move for the French midfielder earlier this week, and Koeman admits that the 25-year-old's form this season is likely to attract offers when the transfer window reopens.

"It will be hard when there is real interest in the player," the Saints boss told reporters. "It is up to the player what he likes to do.

"It is very hard but normally if we have the season like we have so far there will be interest in the players of Southampton.

"If he gets a big offer from a big team, there is always interest for the player and I understand that. That is normal, we know our level and that is a compliment for the players and the club."

Schneiderlin has two years remaining on his current contract.