Southampton have clinched a £12 million deal for Bologna winger Gaston Ramirez.

Ramirez, 21, will become the highest-paid player in Saints' history by snubbing Spurs and Liverpool to sign a £50,000-a-week deal at St Mary's.

Saints chairman Nicola Cortese flew into the UK from Switzerland to seal the move, which dwarfs the £6.5m he paid Burnley for striker Jay Rodriguez.

Midfielder Ramirez said: "Southampton have reached agreement with me, it is the classic offer you cannot refuse.

"They believe in me. I will be essential and the club will grow."