Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl reiterates stance over Leeds United's interest in Che Adams

Ralph Hasenhuttl has reiterated his stance over Che Adams after Southampton turned down a third offer for the forward this week.

The Whites are keen on bringing the 23-year-old to Elland Road this month and have made him one of their top targets in the winter transfer window.

Adams made the move to the south coast in the summer but is yet to score a goal in the Premier League this term for his new side.

He fired 22 goals for Birmingham City in the Championship last season, and has been viewed as an ideal addition to Marcelo Bielsa's squad following the departure of Arsenal loanee Eddie Nketiah.

The YEP understands the Whites offered a substantial loan fee and £20m in the summer, if promotion to the Premier League was secured for the forward.

Hasenhuttl, though, has said once again said that he is determined to keep hold of his attacker.

"I recognise it that our players are interesting to other clubs," he said on Thursday.

"He's not playing at the moment but he recognises his importance to this team.

"I need every player in my squad. This is what I always tell them. For us, there is no option.

"We need every player. I trust every player and I did it also in the moment where we haven't been that successful.

"We need the squad. I don't want to let anybody go."

Asked again about any potential outgoings at St Mary's this month, he added: "I don't want to talk about any rumours. What I can say is nobody was in my office and wanting to leave us.

"Also, we don't have to sell players."

Leeds remain in talks with other clubs both domestically and on the continent for a striker and are confident they can land a front man before next Friday's transfer deadline.