Wotte fears Saints player exodus

Wotte took over as Southampton head coach in January

Southampton head coach Mark Wotte fears the protracted takeover situation will result in top players leaving the newly-relegated League One side.

The club's future remains under the microscope after the Pinnacle Group's takeover deal suffered a delay that is still to be resolved.

Wotte told BBC Radio Solent: "Out-of-contract players have deadlines with other clubs who want to sign them.

"We need to get the situation sorted so that the club can move forward."

Southampton captain Kelvin Davis is one player whose contract is up at St Mary's.

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"I know Kelvin is keen to sort his situation out, whether it be a new contract with us, or talking to clubs elsewhere," said the Dutch manager.

Striker David McGoldrick has been linked with a move to Nottingham Forest, midfielder Andrew Surman is also a target for other clubs, while frontman Bradley Wright-Phillips has interested Crystal Palace.

"All the speculation about other groups who might or might not be taking over, about managers, about players, it's almost ridiculous now," Wotte added.

"It's a bit annoying that so much time needs to be taken before any decisions can be made as to the future."

The Pinnacle Group are currently in dispute with the Football League over the administration of Southampton's 10-point penalty for the beginning of the 2009-2010 season.

The wages of club staff and players were not paid for the month of June, leading to further doubts over the progress of the Pinnacle bid.