Claude Puel has reassured Saints supporters that Jose Fonte will remain at St Mary's after discussions with Saints Chairman Ralph Krueger.
The French manager was firm in his statement earlier this afternoon that Jose Fonte would be remaining at the club.
‘His work with Southampton is not finished," said Puel.
"There are good opportunities in Europe and the Premier League and for me it’s very important to keep Jose."
"He’s okay with this. He had a good discussion with the director, the chairman and now it’s okay. The fans can be happy because Jose’s staying."
Interesting statement from the Saints manager in that it is quite blunt that Fonte will be staying, but there is no mention of a new contract or otherwise, this will perhaps lead some to think that the discussions may have seen some straight talking from Ralph Krueger, that he has reiterated the club's position and that is that with with two years left on his deal, the club has all the cards in this situation.
Just how "Okay" Fonte is will remain to be seen and whether this will see Manchester United or rather Fonte's agent Jorge Mendes back off or up the stakes is yet to be seen.