Flocking to Twitter, many Saints fans have erupted in delight at the news that Southampton are close to announcing a takeover of the club.

According to a report by The Athletic, majority shareholder Gao Jisheng has sold his 80 per cent stake in the club, meaning that Southampton are close to announcing a takeover.

It was revealed last month that two parties were in advanced negotiations to purchase the Chinese businessman’s stake in the club, and now it is understood that a deal has been agreed and both Ralph Hasenhuttl and his players have been informed.

Southampton had been publicly available on the market for 18 to 24 months, and it is believed that it was due to the owner’s high asking price that it took so long for a deal to be agreed. This issue was exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic and the initial scare of the European Super League.

Many Saints fans erupt at takeover news

Flocking to The Athletic's Dan Sheldon's update on Twitter, lots of Saints fans can barely contain themselves at the news. The overall consensus is clearly one of great optimism for what comes next under new leadership, with some reports floating around about a 'Red Bull style multi-club system'.

Here’s what these fans said:

"YESSSSSSSSS FINALLY THE PAIN IS OVER"

Credit: @ggxorge

"What a start to 2022!! #saintsfc"

Credit: @Lewis_Mathieson

"YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Credit: @SamD_dappy

"HASENHÜTTL INFORMED? this man is getting p’s for transfer windows gerrin"

Credit: @atterz_

"KISS ME DAN"

Credit: @_jozzerboy

"Ah i feel like crying. This is wonderful news"

Credit: @privvv_colee