With the arrival of Jupp Heynckes, El Khalej lost influence and made only 4 league appearances, two as a substitute in the 1999–2000 season, so he moved to Southampton in March 2000  for £350,000, as Glenn Hoddle's first signing for his new club, although the deal had already been arranged by Dave Jones.
With the arrival of Jupp Heynckes at El Khalej, the player's influence decreased and he made only four league appearances, two as a substitute during the 1999–2000 season. He subsequently moved to Southampton in March 2000 for £350,000, becoming Glenn Hoddle's first signing for the club, although the deal had been arranged by Dave Jones.