Report: Southampton, Aston Villa monitoring German defender Tobias Pachonik

Southampton and Aston Villa have reportedly entered the race to snap up German defender Tobias Pachonik.

The 23-year-old is set to become a free agent this summer, with his contract at current club Carpi due to expire.

A former Germany Under-20s international, Pachonik enjoyed a fruitful season with the Serie B outfit, earning a place in the team of the season, and is known to be a versatile player who can also be deployed in midfield.

According to Turkish Football, Pachonik - who has previously played for Schalke 04, FC Nurnberg and Stuttgarter Kickers - interests Southampton, who are seeking reinforcements to avoid another relegation battle.

Meanwhile, the report also claims that Villa are looking to cut back on spending due to Financial Fair Play concerns and feel that the right-back, who would not command a transfer fee, fits the bill.

Pachonik is also believed to be on the radar of Fiorentina and Eintracht Frankfurt.