Southampton have signed young defender Armel Bella-Kotchap from Vfl Bochum.

The 20-year-old, who has signed a four-year contract, joins in a deal worth around £8.6m.

Despite his young age, Armel Bella-Kotchap racked up 74 senior appearances for Bochum.

"He is a player who fits our profile very well and has a huge amount of potential," said Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.

"But, with the number of senior games he has already played, he can help us immediately.

"I think he has made the perfect choice in wanting to join us and we will now work with him to make sure he reaches his potential both for himself and for the team."