Southampton youngster Yan Valery signs professional terms

French youngster Yan Valery has signed his first professional contract with Southampton.

The 17-year-old, who joined the Saints from Stade Rennais at the start of the season, has committed his future to the St Mary's Stadium until 2018.

"I'm very happy signing my first professional contract with Southampton," he told the club's official website.

"It's a very good club for me to improve my football. All the staff are very good with me. I'm very happy. I have improved a lot already. These are great facilities for me to improve my football.

"I think it's very important for a club to give chances to young players. When you are young it's very important. That's great for me to know."

Valery has made 11 appearances for Southampton's Under-18s side this term.