Southampton could use Mario Lemina as makeweight in a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden.
Toon boss Steve Bruce is a fan of Lemina, but owner Mike Ashley has a policy against spending money on players who are over the age of 28.
The Daily Mail says Saints could offer Lemina and cash in exchange for Hayden.
The 26-year-old is valued at £12m, while Lemina can be bought for £4m as he has one year left on contract.
Watford have also been linked with Hayden.
