Southampton are set to complete the summer signing of Stade Brest left-back Romain Perraud, acting as a blow to Leeds United, who have been eyeing the Frenchman this summer.

The Lowdown: Perraud seen as left-back option

It seems clear that Marcelo Bielsa is keen on signing a left-back this summer, perhaps indicating that Ezgjan Alioski will leave the club.

The £7.2million-rated Perraud is one of a host of names to have emerged, having shone for Brest last season, scoring three goals and registering seven assists in Ligue 1.

There has also been strong interest from Saints, however, and it appears as though the south coast club may have got their man.

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The Latest: Saints set to complete move

According to Football Insider, Saints are 'closing in' on the signing of the 23-year-old after 'leapfrogging' Leeds in the battle to acquire his services.

A £12million move is mooted and Ralph Hasenhuttl looks increasingly likely to bring Perraud to St Mary's Stadium.

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The Verdict: No disaster for Leeds

While this is a blow for Leeds, given the amount of interest they have seemingly shown in Perraud, there are other strong options out there.

Both Junior Firpo and Javi Galan have been linked with moves in recent days and both possess the qualities Bielsa will be looking for in his new left-back.

Granted, neither managed Perraud's impressive assist tally last season, but Firpo made more blocks per game in the league - 0.4 compared to 0.1 - and Galan played more key passes per match (1.1 compared to one), so they certainly each have their strengths, and Firpo in particular looks to be getting closer.

In other news, one player is thought to be on the verge of joining Leeds - find out who it is here.