Southampton have reportedly cooled interest in Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe as they continue to hunt for Ronald Koeman's replacement.

Howe, who retained the Cherries' Premier League status after guiding the club to the top flight for the first time in their history, was an early contender for the role when rumours about Koeman's move to Everton began circulating.

However, according to The Telegraph, both parties are unsure about the reaction that would come with Howe moving a short distance along the coast to Southampton, and have therefore taken him off the list of candidates.

The report claims that former Roma boss Rudi Garcia is being considered by the Saints due to his European experience, while ex-Ajax boss Frank de Boer is also a contender.

Southampton reportedly hope to have a new manager in place before the players return for pre-season on June 28.