A £200MILLION Chinese takeover of Saints is still some way from completion and may not happen at all, the Daily Echo understands.

Media reports suggested that Lander Sports Development had agreed to buy a stake after opening talks with Saints owner Katharina Liebherr over a potential purchase of the club.

The company had entered a six-week exclusivity period in November, although this deadline passed with no formal offer being made.

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But the Daily Echo understands that reports of an imminent purchase are wide of the mark, and that a deal may not happen at all.

Responding to reports that a £200million deal had been agreed, Katharina Liebherr said: "I am writing to you in relation to an announcement made in China today about Southampton Football Club and Lander Holding.

"Please understand that I can only make limited comments regarding this process but I can assure you that any steps we do take will be in the best interests of the club.

"A potential partnership would need to clear multiple approvals and fulfil strict criteria before being confirmed. 

"The Premier League is increasingly competitive; we need to keep moving forward and look to new markets for commercial growth, innovation and to share our journey.

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"Together we have had many years of progression and success, and ensuring this continues is the main focus of any possible partnership. 

"I cannot thank you enough for the continued support you give Southampton Football Club, and it makes me so proud to think we will soon be experiencing a major final together at Wembley.

"I hope you enjoy what will be a brilliant day for our club and look forward to a successful future together."