Alex McCarthy joins Southampton from Crystal Palace on three-year deal

Southampton have announced the signing of goalkeeper Alex McCarthy from Crystal Palace on a three-year deal.

The 26-year-old, who spent one season at Palace following a £3.5m move from Queens Park Rangers last summer, has committed himself to the Saints until 2019.

Southampton manager Claude Puel has been hunting for a second-choice keeper to provide cover for Fraser Forster following the departure of Maarten Stekelenburg and Kelvin Davis's retirement.

McCarthy, who failed to dislodge Wayne Hennessey from the number one spot at Selhurst Park last season, said: "I'm over the moon to join a club like this. The club is known for producing young players and they've had successful seasons.

"There's the Europa League to look forward to this season, so there's going to be a lot of games. With the stature of the club, I'm honoured to be here and I'm looking forward to getting working with everyone."

Executive director of football Les Reed added: "Once again, I am delighted to welcome another player to the squad at Southampton. We now have two quality English goalkeepers who have both represented the country at International level.

"I am confident that Fraser will soon be England's number one, and in Alex we have a young player who has already had a taste of the England senior squad, as well as excellent experience at Under-21 level.

"Alex is ambitious and will be pushing for a starting place every time he gets the opportunity, which can only be good for Fraser and a shining example for Harry Lewis and the younger keepers below. Working with Dave Watson, our keepers can only get better and, who knows, we could have two Saints stoppers at the World Cup in two years' time."

McCarthy made his senior debut at Reading, and was sent out on loan to eight different clubs during a seven-year spell.