Southampton manager Will Still said he is still trying to perfect his squad before the transfer window shuts.
"We're waiting, we're trying to unlock things and make things happen, but it is a fight at times," he told BBC Radio Solent.
Still said there are external barriers blocking the club's ability to both buy and sell.
"[For example,] national team coaches telling players that they need to be in first division clubs or top five leagues to get into contention in thinking about World Cups."
"There is activity within the club, it's just a complicated market.