Ronald Koeman has given up hope of landing Toby Alderweireld but is still optimistic of securing more signings before the close of the transfer window.

Saints had been interested in a move for the 25-year-old Belgian defender, but with Sunderland now leading the race for his signature it seems any possible deal is dead.

Likewise, Saints are unlikely to land Tottenham winger Andros Townsend, with Spurs pulling up the barriers after being rebuffed in their attempts to sign Morgan Schneiderlin.

However, Saints will continue to push for a couple more deals before Monday’s deadline.

“I hope so. We work very hard to bring in one or two new players in different positions but still at the moment that is not done and I cannot say anything about that,” said Koeman.

Asked about Alderweireld, the Saints manager replied: “It’s not realistic.”

And on Townsend he added: “It’s difficult because it’s one of the players on our list but it’s very difficult and I don’t expect good news about that.

“You can’t say completely because it’s football.”

With regards to potential departures, Koeman stated that he did not intend to allow Gaston Ramirez to complete a rumoured loan move to Sevilla.

The future of Jack Cork remains uncertain with a year left on his contract.

Koeman praised Cork’s contribution against Millwall, but the next few days could yet yield a move away if cover at right back arrives.

Koeman said: “Training and playing like he is now and there will come a moment that the club will decide about his future but it’s too early to say others things than I can do now at the moment.”