Recent reports linking Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch with the Southampton job are 'fanciful', according to an update from talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.

The Lowdown: Marsch linked with Southampton

Ralph Hasenhuttl finds himself under increasing pressure as Saints boss, with the south coast club reportedly weighing up the idea of sacking him in the near future.

Marsch has emerged as a contender to replace the Austrian at St Mary's, with Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper also mentioned as an alternative. The latter has since signed a new deal at the City Ground, though, putting him out of the running.

The Latest: Journalist shrugs off rumour

However, taking to Twitter in light of the speculation, Crook has downplayed the possibility of Marsch leaving Leeds, saying that a move to Southampton looks highly unlikely.

The reporter stated:

"Steve Cooper to #SaintsFC was shortlived! Never looked likely as Ralph's biggest strength is developing young players. Also told the Jesse Marsch links are fanciful."

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The Verdict: Would be a blow

Marsch is performing well as Leeds manager, regrouping the team after a rocky end to Marcelo Bielsa's spell and doing well to keep them in the Premier League. His 20 matches in charge so far have yielded a respectable total of seven wins and six draws.

To lose him now as he continues to get his ideas across and bring in his own players, such as Brenden Aaronson and Luis Sinisterra, would be a big blow for the Whites. Indeed, he has been described as 'incredible' by American radio host Jason Davis, highlighting his reputation in his homeland.

Thankfully, it doesn't appear as though there is much truth in the rumours regarding Marsch and Southampton, and this is hopefully still just the start of a glorious period under him at Elland Road.