Southampton sign Japan international Maya Yoshida

Southampton have announced that they have agreed a deal to sign Japanese international Maya Yoshida.

The 24-year-old is expected to sign a three-year deal at St. Mary's after Saints agreed a fee with Dutch club VVV-Venlo, subject to entry clearance.

Yoshida told the club's official website: "To come to the Premier League was one of my biggest dreams since I was a child.

"I am very grateful to be able to become a Saint and I will do my best for the team and for the supporters.

"I want to show them what I can do as soon as possible and hopefully impress them with my performances."

Saints boss Nigel Adkins was delighted to get Yoshida's signature. He said: "We are delighted to bring in Maya to the club.

"He is a centre-half who is comfortable on both the right and left-hand side as he is good with both feet and has a good physical presence about himself."

Southampton continue their Premier League adventure this weekend with the visit of Manchester United.