SAINTS have reportedly launched a new bid for young Reading defender Andre Garcia following his breakout season in League One.

The 17 year old has stood out for the Royals this season since being handed first-team opportunities by former Saints boss Ruben Selles.

Garcia, who is a first-team regular at left-back but can play further forward, has made 11 starts and notched his first assist in a 4-1 win over Northampton in December.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Southampton have launched a fresh bid for the teenager after an initial bid was knocked back last month.

Garcia does not turn 18 until December but has already racked up 24 senior appearances across all competitions having come through at Reading.

Southampton already have a long list of left-backs at the club with Ivan Juric already able to call upon Ryan Manning, Charlie Taylor and Welington while Juan Larios is currently injured.

Kyle Walker-Peters is currently the first-choice at left-wing back but his contract runs out in six months.

Southampton lost talented young left-back Jayden Meghoma to Brentford this summer and the England youth international has since earned a loan move to Preston North End.

The St Mary's side are keen to add talented young players and have already signed French defender Joachim Kayi Sanda this winter.