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Saints complete Wanyama deal

Victor Wanyama had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs © PA Photos

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Southampton have announced the signing of Victor Wanyama from Celtic on a four-year deal.

Wanyama, who is believed to have cost around £12.5 million, had been tracked by a number of clubs after an impressive two-year spell in Scotland but the Saints have won the race for his signature.

ESPN reported on Wednesday that the deal was close, and it was announced via Southampton's official Twitter feed on Thursday.

The move had earlier stalled, seemingly due to the player's wage demands, and Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino told the club's official website: "I am very pleased to have secured the signing of Victor because we are a big admirer of his talents and he will fit in well to the team here at Southampton.

"I want to stress that the deal could have been done sooner, but this shows that we do business on our terms. The most important thing that ourselves, Celtic and the player are all happy with the way it has all gone.

"The fact that a lot of top European clubs were also keen to sign him shows what an attractive prospect Southampton Football Club is to a player who had his pick of the teams in England and abroad.

"I've watched him perform at the top level in the Champions League, and I believe that he will be a valuable addition to our Premier League squad for the season ahead."

A statement on Celtic's official website read: "He leaves Celtic with the best wishes and support of everyone at the club as our own preparations continue for the new season."

Wanyama, 22, had spoken of his delight at sealing a switch to St Mary's prior to the deal's confirmation.

"I wish to thank everyone who has made this deal happen," he said in the Southampton Echo. "Obviously, there are many clubs that have enquired about my services over the past season, but it's Southampton who kept on trying to acquire my services, and that trust is very important.

"I am looking forward to going there and giving my best both for the team and for myself as a player."

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