It’s really been an eventful summer transfer window for Southampton Football Club. Three days ago, they announced a double signing- backup goalkeeper Stuart Taylor, and Portugese right-back Cédric. Here’s a link to more on those signings.
Today brings the unveiling of Lille attacking midfielder Sofiane Boufal for a club-record transfer fee. Neither Southampton FC nor Lille disclosed the amount, but it’s reported to be at least £16 million.
Boufal signs a five-year deal with Saints, having been with the Ligue 1 outfit for a year and a half. The youngster moved from Angers in January of 2015.
Here’s the statement from Executive Director of Football Les Reed in regards to the 22-year-old Morocco international: “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Sofiane to Southampton Football Club.”
“He has shown his undoubted qualities in France over the past few seasons, and we are extremely confident he will successfully adapt to life in the Premier League.
“Sofiane is a player we have watched develop closely over the last few years, and we’re thrilled to have him join the club ahead of what promises to be a very exciting season, with Europa League football on the horizon.
“His excellent campaign with Lille last season meant a number of clubs were pursuing him to secure his services, but we’re delighted that Sofiane sees Southampton as the best place for him to continue his development.
“Saints fans may have to wait for a few weeks yet to see him demonstrate his skills, as Sofiane had a delayed start to his pre-season training and will be working very hard with our fitness staff to get up to full match fitness.
“At just 22 years of age, he will undoubtedly continue to improve as a player, and we’re very pleased that he will be able to make that progression with us here at Southampton.”
The statement of Sofiane Boufal reads: “I’m very, very happy to sign for Southampton and I am really excited to play in St Mary’s Stadium in front of the fans.”
“Southampton showed big interest in signing me, and I can see that this club is the best place for me to continue my progression as a footballer.
“I hope I can achieve many great things with Southampton. It is a very good club, with excellent facilities, and I feel it is the perfect environment to continue my development.”
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