Southampton are reportedly close to completing the signing of Real Valladolid central defender Mohammed Salisu.
The 21-year-old is expected to sign a four-year contract after the Saints activated the defender's £10.9m release clause.
Premier League duo Manchester United and West Ham United, as well as French side Rennes, were all understood to have had an interest in the Ghanaian, however the Daily Mail reports that the prospect of regular football at St Mary's played a key role in Salisu's decision to join the club.
Ralph Hasenhuttl's side have managed to carve out some impressive results either side of the lockdown, including a 1-0 victory over Manchester City, however the Saints have conceded 59 goals in their 37 league matches - the fifth highest in the division.
Southampton are to prioritise reinforcing their defence this summer and see Salisu as a long-term investment.
Salisu joined the youth setup at Spanish side Real Valladolid in 2017 and has made 34 appearances after breaking into the first team this campaign.
Oliver Thomas
