The Sun journalist Tom Barclay has revealed Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is looking to bolster his squad with exciting youngsters amid interest in Fulham teen Fabio Carvalho.
Saints are understood to be looking to strike a deal for Carvalho when the transfer window reopens in January.
What's the latest news involving Carvalho?
Carvalho's Fulham future has become increasingly uncertain after the 19-year-old rejected a new contract earlier this week.
The Cottagers have been desperate to tie one of their prised assets down to fresh terms as his current agreement is set to expire at the end of June.
But Southampton are likely to face stiff competition for the creative midfielder's signature as Premier League rivals West Ham United, Leeds United, Norwich City and Portuguese side Porto were keen during the summer transfer window and could renew their interest after seeing the youngster snub his current employers' latest proposal.
Carvalho also has suitors abroad after catching the eye of La Liga giants Real Madrid.
Southampton boss Hasenhuttl has been eager to welcome exciting youngsters in recent times, with 18-year-old right-back Tino Livramento making the £5million move from Chelsea during the summer and Armando Broja, 20, also switching from Stamford Bridge on a season-long loan deal.
What has Tom Barclay said about Saints' transfer strategy?
Barclay has confirmed that Southampton are looking to welcome up-and-coming talent to St Mary's when the transfer window reopens.
However, he claims Hasenhuttl is only interested in youngsters who can make an instant impact in the Premier League.
Barclay told GIVEMESPORT: "I know they've gone for this new way forward, as we can all see from the likes of Livramento, Broja and a few other signings.
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"They're looking for younger players, but not just younger players who will go into the system, the under-23s team or squad players.
"They want players who can affect the first team, that they think are good enough and willing to give them a chance."
Why is Carvalho coveted by so many clubs?
Despite still being a teenager, Carvalho started the campaign as a key member of Fulham boss Marco Silva's side and repaid that faith by bagging three goals and an assist.
However, a toe injury resulted in Carvalho having to wait until last weekend to chalk up his sixth appearance of the season.
Southampton's St Mary's home is a stadium which is memorable for Carvalho as it is where he not only made his first Premier League start but claimed the maiden senior goal of his career.
He has also shone on the international stage, winning 29 caps at various age levels for England.
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