Hoffenheim's youngmanager Julian Nagelsmann has sent a very loud 'hands off' message to Tottenham and Southampton following rumours that the Premier League duoare interested in signing striker Mark Uth.
Uth, who signed for Hoffenheim in 2015 has had a great season, registering seven goals in 12 matches, leading to reports that Premier League teams may well be interested in the 25-year-old.
#Football - Mark Uth wanted by Tottenham and Southampton. #Bundesliga | https://t.co/q1k7gLjYR5 pic.twitter.com/CqI13uUDCY
However it appears that 29-year-oldNagelsmann is not willing to part with his star striker, according to reports in InsideFutbol.
When askedwhether a bid could temptthe clubto sell Uth,Nagelsmannresponded definitively, "I would not let him go."
Hoffenheim are currently one place and one point off the Champions League places in the Bundesliga, meaning Uth's performances could be vital in the second half of the season.
Nagelsman's response will disappoint Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, who may well be looking for back up to Harry Kane as summer signing Victor Janssen has failed to impress this season.
The22-year-old has only registered one League goal thisseason -a penaltyagainst Leicester City.
Southampton are also on the look out for a new striker following long term injuries to Charlie Austin and Sofiane Boufal, leaving Claude Puel withjust Shane Long and Jay Rodriguez to select from.
Both sides are back in league action this weekend following the FA Cup matches.Tottenham kick off a weekend of Premier League football when they host West Brom on Saturday lunch time.Southampton on the other hand, face a visit to Turf Moor to take on Burnley.