Southampton have backed out of the race to sign Brentford central defender Chris Mepham this month.
According to Sky Sports, Southampton did hold an interest in Mepham but have now decided against making a move for the Welshman.
The report claims that Bournemouth are in talks with Brentford over a deal for Mepham and that Southampton have no plans to rival Eddie Howe’s side.
The 21-year-old has impressed for Brentford in the Championship this season and was the subject of a £10m bid from Bournemouth last summer – which was rejected.
Sky Sports claim that Southampton also held an interest in Mepham’s Brentford teammate Ollie Watkins, but they do not state whether or not a potential deal is still active.
Mepham has been capped four times by Wales and made 23 appearances for Brentford last season in his breakout campaign.
The report does not reveal the price that Brentford are demanding for the young central defender.
