Southamptonexecutive director of football Les Reed was delighted to complete the signing of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg on Monday.

The 20-year-old Denmark international has joined the Saints on a five-year deal and brings with him to the south coast an 'impressive pedigree' and a decent amount of experience for a player of his age.

"Pierre is an exciting young talent, who we are delighted to welcome to Southampton Football Club," he told the club's official website.

"Pierre boasts an impressive pedigree, as well as a great deal of potential, and it is testament to our reputation that he has chosen Southampton ahead of other suitors as the next step in his career.

"We believe the club will be an ideal place for Pierre to continue his progression and that he will be an excellent addition to our squad.

"We now have the perfect blend of positional strength, experience and dynamic youth in our midfield slots. There will be healthy competition, but also the required depth and robustness for our challenge in the Europa League.

"I believe as a group we probably have a choice from the best pool of midfield options in the Premier League."