Southampton's executive director of football Les Reed has hailed the signing of defender Cedric Soares.

The Saints signed the Portugal international on a four-year deal from Sporting Lisbon on Thursday.

The 23-year old came through Sporting's youth academy and has since gone on to make 67 appearances for the club, suggesting to Reed that he has the pedigree for the Premier League.

"Cedric represents a quality addition to our squad, and is another player with a desire and hunger to succeed," said Reed.

"Like (fellow new signing) Juanmi, Cedric is a young player with international experience as well as exceptional talent and potential.

"We have been following Cedric's progress for some time and felt now was the time to make our move.

"While there was competition from other Premier League clubs we were confident we would prove to be an attractive option for such an ambitious player.

"We have now signed two exciting talents early in the window and will continue in our pursuit of Premier League success and our European journey."