Southampton have made a move for Middlesbrough attacking midfielder Finn Azaz.
Daily Mail Sport understands an offer worth up to £12million is being discussed for the Republic of Ireland international.
Initial talks have begun as West Ham have made an improved offer for Saints midfielder Mateus Fernandes while Tyler Dibling also continues to draw attention from Premier League clubs.
Azaz had an impressive season in the Championship last season, scoring 12 goals in 45 games and is viewed by Southampton as someone who can help guide them back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Boro value Azaz highly so Saints may need to up their offer to get the 24-year old.
Boro are also anticipating a fresh approach from Ipswich for Hayden Hackney.
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Finn Azaz had an impressive season in the Championship last season, scoring 12 goals in 45 games
Southampton could lose midfielder Mateus Fernandes and Tyler Dibling to Premier League clubs before the window closes
The midfielder turned down a proposed £20m move to Portman Road last month but Ipswich haven’t given up.
Kieran McKenna is determined to add quality to his midfield engine room and, as first reported by Daily Mail Sport, made an approach to Newcastle United to take highly rated Lewis Miley on loan only for Eddie Howe to insist on keeping the youngster for the time being.
However, if Azaz leaves then it is highly unlikely Hackney will be allowed to go too with Boro reluctant to sell both.
