Southampton sign former Juventus defender Martin Caceres

Southampton have bolstered their defence with the signing of former Juventus centre-back Martin Caceres until the end of the season.The Uruguay international has been without a club since leaving Italian champions Juve at the end of last term and joins a Saints side who were lacking cover at the back.Virgil van Dijk's long-term ankle injury compounded the January exit of captain Jose Fonte but the signing of Caceres provides some much-needed experience for boss Claude Puel.The 29-year-old reportedly turned down interest from AC Milan and Crystal Palace and insists a move to the English south coast was the right choice.Speaking to the club's official website, Caceres said: "I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football. I am looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates."Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton. I am extremely happy to have joined this club."Caceres is unlikely to be able to slot straight into the team given he has not played since last February after undergoing surgery on a torn right Achilles tendon.The former Barcelona and Sevilla defender could therefore miss out on the EFL Cup final against Manchester United on February 26.

Source: PA