SAINTS defender Jan Bednarek is reportedly a surprise transfer target for Italian giants AS Roma ahead of this evening's transfer deadline.

Bednarek, 28, signed a new three-year contract with Saints in September and has emerged as an on-pitch captain for new boss Ivan Juric.

After signing his deal, the Poland ace said: "I think it's the right choice for me and my family. We are happy here. I think we found our happy place in life."

However, the Daily Mail have reported fresh permanent transfer interest in Bednarek this month from Roma, who sacked Juric in November.

They detail that Saints are aware of the club's interest and an £8million fee has been mooted, although a deal is not close.

Saints and Juric would likely be extremely reluctant to lose the defender, whose future has been secured until 2027 thanks to his new deal.

Bednarek has made 23 appearances in all competitions this season, taking his total outings for Saints to a remarkable 243.

Bednarek is one of Southampton's longest-serving players after signing from Lech Poznan for a fee of around £5million in July 2017.