ROMA and Lyon have entered the race to sign Saints midfielder Mario Lemina.

Lemina was closing in on a season-long loan move to Monaco, but the late interest could derail that transfer.

The Daily Echo understands that Monaco only want to include an obligation to buy clause if they are to finish in a certain position in Ligue 1.

It’s believed that Saints they would prefer the deal to become permanent next summer regardless of where the French side finish the campaign.

This stalling from Monaco has allowed both Roma and Lyon to express their interest in negotiating a deal for the want-away Lemina.

And given the amount of time Monaco have taken over the deal, Saints will, understandably, listen to what the other two sides can offer.

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl also confirmed that it’s likely Lemina will leave the club over the next 10 days.

Hasenhuttl said: “He is one of the guys [who can leave].

“There are a few options for him and it’s especially important that this personality is coming to a clear finish.

“We will have a look at what happens but it’s an option that he will leave us in this transfer period.”

Lemina has been itching for a move away from Saints since the transfer window opened.

Speaking to France Football in June, the Gabon international confirmed his intention to leave and stated: “There is no going back.”

During his two-year spell at Saints, Lemina has played 49 times.