MATT Grimes has "attracted interest" from Saints, according to a report by Mail Online.

Championship duo Bournemouth and Fulham are currently said to be the two sides leading the battle for the Swansea City captain.

But the report claims both Saints and Newcastle United are also keeping tabs on the midfielder.

Scott Parker left his role as Fulham boss to become Cherries' head coach last month, and is now set to be going head-to-head with his former club to sign the 25-year-old, who he had been keen on during his time in charge of Fulham.

The Exeter-born ace's current contract with the Swans is understood to be set to expire next summer.

Before moving to Swansea in 2015, Grimes came through the ranks at Exeter City. He has also spent time out on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Leeds United and Northampton Town before becoming a key figure in the Swans midfield.

Under Steve Cooper last season, Grimes played 51 times, including the Championship play-off final defeat to Brentford.

He netted five goals throughout the campaign, one of which coming in the play-off semi-finals against Barnsley.

Grimes has now made a total of 157 appearances for Swansea, scoring eight times.