BRETT Ormerod's £1.75 million move to Southampton looks set to go ahead as Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston irons out details with his Saints counterpart Rupert Lowe.
The 25-year-old - who has been in blistering form this season, bagging 20 goals already - will be handed the daunting task of reviving the south-coast club's relegation fight.
Ormerod is thought to have told the Seasiders he wants to leave to pursue his dream of playing in the top flight.
This is likely to persuade the Second Division club to accept the improved offer which was made late last week.
They turned down the initial bid of £1m because they will have to give 25 per cent to the player's former club Accrington Stanley.
Saints boss Gordon Strachan refused point-blank to discuss the proposed deal saying: "I never talk about transfers until they are done.
"There is no point saying it is imminent. It is either completed or it isn't. At the moment it isn't."
However Blackpool boss, Steve McMahon, was more forthcoming.
He said: "We are very close to a deal. We would be very stupid to deny him the chance to further his career.
"I think the price will be somewhere around £1.75m, with sell-on clauses.
"I have had some conversations with Gordon Strachan at Southampton and we're not a million miles away regarding Brett.
"We don't want to lose him, but when an offer like this comes in you have to listen."
Saints Chairman Rupert Lowe said that he had spoken to Karl Oyston and insisted: "We are still negotiating.
"In football, there are always hurdles to overcome, and we are continuing discussions.
"Blackpool have their aspirations for what they believe the player is worth, which is higher than what Gordon Strachan feels should be bid.
"We have not committed to a bid fully. We are talking about a deal involving cash and games.
"I would think it is unlikely a deal will be done today."
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