Adkins: Ramirez capture a statement of intent

Southampton manager Nigel Adkins says that the signing of Gaston Ramirez from Bologna for a club-record fee shows the ambition of his side.

Promoted side Southampton tied up a surprise deal for the 21-year-old Uruguay winger on deadline day for an undisclosed sum, believed to be in the region of 12 million pounds.

Ramirez had been linked with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, and Adkins feels Southampton’s success in sealing the transfer can send out a message to the rest of the English Premier League.

“It underlines the ambition of the club that we’ve been able to attract such a talented young individual like Gaston,” Adkins told the Southampton website.

“He’s got a massive future in the game, so we’re delighted. He’s already talked about the project and the vision that has been set out by the chairman, Nicola Cortese.

“Everything that we’re doing here is very positive at Southampton and this signing underlines the progressive nature that we’ve got.”

Ramirez said he was excited to begin a new chapter in his career, and was pleased to be able to play in England.

“I know that just a few years ago the club was in the third division, so they have had a great increase in success to be in the Premier League now,” he said.

“I have been following the Premier League since before I was in Italy – that was a positive experience, but now I am delighted to be here in England and to play in the Barclays Premier League.

“The stadium is great and I had a very positive impression from the manager. I also know the people here and the supporters are very warm, so I’m just looking forward to beginning my experience here.

“Now, I am sure I can do very well for the club and contribute to our success.”

Southampton host Manchester United at St Mary’s Stadium on Sunday.