Southampton are leading the transfer race to sign Danny Welbeck for a cut-price of £5.5million.
The 29-year-old is keen to part ways with Watford following their 3-2 loss to Arsenal which them relegated into the Championship after five years as a Premier League outfit.
Welbeck, who has a release clause in his contract, is wanted among a host of top-flight clubs.
The ex-Arsenal and Manchester United forward has 12-months left on his current contract but Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is said to be willing to pay his £5.5m release clause.
Hasenhuttl has been impressed with the striker, who joined Watford on a free transfer last summer after his contract with Arsenal expired, according to The Sun.
Welbeck has scored a total of 44 goals and claimed 20 assists during his 224 Premier League appearances.
However, Welbeck’s time at Watford more specifically was hampered by injury – seeing him make just 20 appearances and scoring three times.
Nevertheless, Southampton believe the discounted price would be a steal for the striker who has 42 England caps to his name.