Newcastle issues go public with Ryan Fraser transfer at risk of collapse

Southampton boss Russell Martin has been discussing Ryan Fraser's future after returning to Newcastle following a loan spell on the South Coast, hinting that wages could be an issue.

It was suggested in early June that the Scot was close to sealing a permanent move to St Mary's, but it seems the situation is slightly more complex than we initially realised and that his current deal at Newcastle may be causing problems for the Saints.

Martin states that all parties would like the "Wee Man" to return following Southampton's promotion, but admits he's on a "good contract" at Newcastle and accepts the club may have to look elsewhere if a resolution isn't found soon. Are they asking for Newcastle to pay him off so he can sign on a free, you wonder? Or is he refusing to leave the salary  - of a reported £60,000-per-week - on Tyneside if he'll have to accept considerably less down South?

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: “I think we’re all hopeful that at some point that will happen. But he’s contracted to Newcastle. I think he would love to come back and we would love to keep him.

“Everyone wants him: Me, the fans, the owners, the players and the staff – Wee Man himself, but he is under contract at another club and a good contract. It’s their (Newcastle) prerogative to do what they want with him at the moment and unfortunately for us and for Wee Man, it’s not what we want.

“So much of football is about timing and there might come a time where it’s no longer viable for us or an option. We have to be looking at other people as well.”