MANAGER Russell Martin admitted he does not expect Che Adams to sign a new Saints contract any time soon but has left the "ball in his court".

Saints offered striker Adams, 28, new terms to re-engage after his former deal at St Mary's expired at the start of July.

He has yet to sign a contract anywhere and it means that Adams is officially a free agent and can choose his next club from any offer.

Reports suggested clubs in England were interested in Adams but the latest rumours - fuelled by him being seen in Italy - claim he has spoken with Torino.

Martin still retains hope that Adams will re-sign at Saints but was not boisterous about the club's chances in a new interview with BBC South. 

Martin said: "We offered Che a brilliant contract, in my opinion, a really good contract, but it's Che's prerogative to take his time and assess the situation.

Russell Martin is preparing for his first season in the Premier LeagueRussell Martin is preparing for his first season in the Premier League (Image: PA)

"We have to be aware of other targets in that position. As it stands, the ball is in Che's court. I am in touch with him on a fairly regular basis.

"Do I expect him to sign any time soon? Probably not. But I also don't think I expect him to sign anywhere else very, very soon either.

"We will have to wait and see as it can all change very quickly. He did a brilliant job for us last season, I am incredibly grateful to him.

"He's a really good person and what he does is down to him. We have to respect any decision that he makes."

Saints have Adam Armstrong, Ross Stewart and Sekou Mara in their number nine ranks - with Paul Onuachu not recalled to training this summer.

They attempted a permanent move for Man City forward Liam Delap but the youngster opted to sign for fellow promoted side Ipswich Town.

Saints will look to bring in a centre-forward this summer, having already made six additions at the defensive end of the pitch.