Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy is in line for a new contract.

Saints have opened talks with McCarthy over signing a new deal at the club, says the Athletic.

The 31-year-old England international has been first choice for boss Ralph Hasenhuttl in the Premier League this season, having played 23 of the St Mary's side's 24 top-flight games.

McCarthy has kept seven clean sheets in the division this season.

Talks between McCarthy and Saints remain at an early stage – with club also still working on new contracts for Danny Ings and Ryan Bertrand.

Guildford-born McCarthy, whose current deal runs out in 2022, has played 105 times for Saints in all competitions, having signed from Crystal Palace in 2016.