Southampton manager Claude Puel has talked up the importance of keeping captain Jose Fonte at the club this summer.
The 32-year-old has been regularly linked with a move away from the Saints in recent transfer windows, and his performances for Portugal at Euro 2016 are understood to have increased interest in him.
Manchester United are thought to be leading the race for the centre-back's signature, but Puel insists that Fonte is happy at St Mary's.
"Jose Fonte is an important player for the team and for the fans. They like Jose, they like his personality," he told reporters.
"For me it's very important to keep Jose Fonte. He had a good discussion with the director and chairman and all is okay. It was important to listen to Jose to understand his position."
Recent reports have suggested that United boss Jose Mourinho will wait until deadline day to launch one final bid for Fonte.
Barney Corkhill
