Southampton signs Wesley Hoedt on five-year contract

Southampton has signed defender Wesley Hoedt from Lazio on a five-year deal for a reported £15m fee.

Hoedt, 23, began his career at AZ Alkmaar before moving to Lazio in 2015 where he established himself as a top young talent.

The Dutch International made 21 starts for Lazio last season, in which they finished fifth and qualified for the Europa League.

“Wesley is one of the most promising young defenders in Europe and represents a significant addition to our squad,” Southampton Vice Chairman Les Reed said. “Having procured a Champions League finalist from one Italian club we have now added an Italian Supercoppa winner from another.

“We believe he has all the qualities to play a big part in our future, and we have worked hard to bring him to Southampton, with a number of other high-profile clubs interested in him.”

Hoedt becomes Southampton’s third summer signing, following Jan Bednarek and Mario Lemina.

"I'm really happy to be here,” Hoedt said. “I think Southampton is a really big club, so it's a good next step for me to come here and to play in the Premier League and try to help the best I can."