Southampton have confirmed the signing of Stade Brest left-back Romain Perraud on a four-year deal.
The Saints had been in the market for a new left-back since the departure of the long-serving Ryan Bertrand on a free transfer, and had been linked with various targets.
But they have landed on 23-year-old Perraud, who has made 61 appearances for Brest since joining from OGC Nice in the summer of 2019. He scored three times and registered eight assists for Brest, and was named in the Ligue 1 team of the season for 2020/21.
He becomes their second signing after the permanent arrival of Theo Walcott from Everton.
Speaking of his signing, manager Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “This is an important first signing for us. Clearly, left-back is an area in which we were looking to strengthen and we have tracked Romain for a long time because he fits our profile for this position very well.
It’s time, #SaintsFC fans ❗️
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Bonjour, @Romain_Perraud! ? pic.twitter.com/9gF9r3ribp
“He is a high energy, robust guy with good aggression who will bring lots of energy to our play. He has good quality with his delivery from wide and is very competitive with his defending.
“Completing the transfer before the start of pre-season allows him to start training with us immediately, learning our way of playing and tactical behaviours. I think Romain will fit in well with us and we can help him develop his game further and maximise his potential.”
Perraud also expressed his joy at moving to the Premier League, revealing that the club had sold their project to him during talks.
“I’m very happy to be a Saint and I can’t wait to start this adventure.I think it’s the best club for me," he said. "The manager explained to me the project of the club and for me that’s very important.
“He spoke with me about tactics, of the way to play, and there are similarities in his play to mine. The feeling was very good, so now I’m here and I’m very happy.”
Source: 90min
