Redknapp is looking to acquire a host of new players during the next month.

“Maybe up to five,” he admits.

“We need two defenders, a couple of midfielders and perhaps even a frontman but unless we can get James on the move by the weekend it will be a struggle to get the new ones in.

“It is hard enough getting them away from their clubs in any event.

“I talked with James and he said he likes it at Southampton but if the opportunity came up he would like to move on and, for me, that is fair enough.”

The £6million-rated striker has been linked with a move to Everton, and Aston Villa are reported to have already made a bid, similar to the offer they were prepared to table in August.

The 27-year-old Beattie looked to be on the verge of a move to the Midlands club who were reported to the Football Association and Premier League by Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe, claiming an illegal approach.

Villa manager David O’Leary is eager to supplement his attacking options given that Darius Vassell is ruled out through injury until at least February.

Newcastle have also been mooted as potential bidders, and they have players to offer in exchange which might suit Redknapp.

The former Portsmouth boss is battling to preserve Southampton’s 26-year top-flight status, with Saints currently second-bottom.

Everton, with new money coming into the club, are favourites to land Beattie who would provide front-line competition for £400,000 bargain-buy Marcus Bent, with Duncan Ferguson facing a three-match ban after being sent off at Charlton on Tuesday.

Redknapp, meanwhile, has rejected suggestions he will make a move for Liverpool’s Croatian midfielder Igor Biscan.

A master wheeler-dealer, Redknapp will have to see just exactly what money is available from any Beattie sale – business which Lowe has now taken charge of.