Report: Southampton turn to Eddie Howe as Ronald Koeman exit edges closer

Eddie Howe looks on during the Premier League game between Bournemouth and Chelsea on April 23, 2016
© Getty Images
A report claims that Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe is Southampton's top target to replace Ronald Koeman as manager, while Sevilla's Unai Emery is also being considered.

Southampton have reportedly earmarked Bournemouth's Eddie Howe as their top managerial target to replace Ronald Koeman, should the Dutchman depart for Everton this summer.

Koeman is said to have agreed a deal to join the Toffees after holding successful talks over the past week to replace Roberto Martinez at the Goodison Park helm.

According to The Telegraph, the Saints do not intend to hang around and will make an approach to lure Howe to the south coast, while Sevilla's Unai Emery - fresh from winning a third Europa League crown on the bounce - is also in contention.

It is claimed that Southampton offered to make Koeman their highest-paid manager ever, but the 53-year-old is now expected to depart after just two years in charge at St Mary's.

Ronald Koeman during the Premier League game between Aston Villa and Southampton on April 23, 2016
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