Saints close in on Pellegrino?

English club Southampton are in advanced discussions to appoint former Alaves Coach Mauricio Pellegrino this week, say reports.

According to ESPN, the Saints are set to appoint the 45-year-old to replace the sacked Claude Puel and an announcement could be made as early as this week.

The Argentine has enjoyed a remarkable debut season at the Mendizorrotza Stadium, leading the newly-promoted club to a top-half finish and to the Copa Del Rey final.

The former central defender spent six months at Liverpool in 2005 before being appointed Rafael Benitez’s assistant manager at Anfield between 2008 and 2010.

Pellegrino has since managed Valencia along with Argentine clubs Estudiantes and Independiente and is highly-rated within coaching circles.

The South Coast side dismissed Puel despite an 8th-placed finish and a League Cup final appearance last campaign.

Tags Mauricio Pellegrino Southampton
La Liga - Club News