Mauricio Pellegrino flies into England to meet Southampton squad for first time since taking over as boss
Argentine's first job is to sign his three-year contract before being shown around the club’s Staplewood training base
MAURICIO PELLEGRINO flew into England today to meet his Southampton squad for the first time.
The Argentine landed in London during the early hours this morning on Friday and will sign his three-year contract after agreeing terms last Friday.
Pellegrino, 45, has also confirmed that Carlos Campagnucci and Xavi Tamarit will be his assistants at St Mary’s – as they were at his previous club Alaves.
Southampton’s new manager will be shown around the club’s Staplewood training base as well as meet the players and staff.
A Saints source told SunSport: “Mauricio is being picked up at the airport and driven straight down to Southampton.
“He will be meeting with coaches, staff and players as well as officially signing his contract. Everything has been agreed and signed by agents and the club – he just has to put his ink on the final contract.
“Everyone is very excited to meet him. Everyone just wants to get down to work now for the new season."
Meanwhile, Saints have warned Chelsea and Liverpool that central defender Virgil van Dijk is not for sale this summer.
The Dutchman has been strongly linked with a St Mary’s exit despite the arrival of Pellegrino.
Van Dijk, injured for most of the second half of last season, is believed to have his sights set on a move to Anfield.
That despite the fact that Liverpool publicly withdrew their interest after allegations of illegal tapping-up.
But the Reds remain interested, while Premier League champions Chelsea would like to add the ex-Celtic ace to their star-studded roster.