Portugal international Cedric Soares has expressed his delight in completing his transfer to Premier League club Southampton.

The Sporting Lisbon youth academy product signed a four-year deal with the Saints on Thursday and is excited to tes himself in England's top flight with an improving club.

"I joined this club because I believe we can do better and better every year," said Soares.

"Everyone knows that the Premier League is a very, very good league – maybe the best one in the world – so for me it's a pleasure to be here, but even more of a pleasure to be in Southampton.

"Southampton is a big, big club in England and is very respected. It's a club with a lot of history and, for me, it's very important to play for a big club. I think this is a very good move."