Southampton FC announced today the signing of Ryan Bertrand to a five year contract extension. Saints acquired him on loan from Chelsea in 2014 and then made the loan deal permanent. It’s been a very busy summer transfer window at St. Mary’s. Sadio Mane has moved on to Liverpool. Victor Wanyama has transferred to Tottenham Hotspur.
In addition to Ryan Bertrand, Southampton has also struck new deals with Virgil van Dijk, Fraser Forster, James Ward-Prowse and team captain Steven Davis. They’ve also added Nathan Redmond and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg to the roster.
A statement from Executive Director of Football Les Reed reads:
“Signing new players is always exciting and we are delighted with our two summer signings so far, Nathan Redmond and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, who will bring special attributes and strength to our squad. I am equally excited by the commitment shown by our existing stars and those who signed long-term deals last year, thus strengthening the core of the squad.
“Ryan Bertrand has been an integral part of our success since joining in 2014 and has developed as a top Premier League and international player, but he also brings great leadership qualities to the club both on and off the pitch and is a real winner.
“Signing our key players for the long-term is an indication that the squad believes there is more to come and they want to be part of the journey. I know Ryan really believes this, and with him as part of the driving force behind our team I am confident our future is bright.
“Our young players will have an opportunity under our new manager, Claude Puel, but they will also need, and benefit from, the guidance and mentoring from players like Ryan.”
Ryan Bertrand said: “I’m very pleased. It’s been a fantastic move for me since the day I came to this club and I look forward to many more successful years and really pushing forward.
“I’ve enjoyed my football here. I’ve really enjoyed the club, and the fans have been fantastic with me personally as well, so I couldn’t think of any better place to play football and to keep on developing.”
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