Clasie makes Southampton switch

Netherlands international Jordy Clasie has completed a move to Southampton.

The midfielder has switched from Feyenood, signing a five-year deal at St Mary’s Stadium.

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman handed Clasie his debut at Feyenoord in 2010 and he went on to make 129 appearances for the club.

Clasie has played 11 times for his country and arrives as an effective replacement for Morgan Schneiderlin, who completed a big-money move from Southampton to Manchester United last Sunday.

“It feels good to be joining Southampton,” Clasie told the club’s official website. “It’s a nice club and I’m happy to be here.

“It’s a big club playing in what I think is the biggest and most important league.

“Ronald [Koeman] being here is a big thing for me and that was important in me coming here, but even if he wasn’t here I’d have come to this club.

“I played every game for him. He’s a good trainer and a good man so I like him, but I came here not only for him, I came here for the club.

“I’ve watched many games of Southampton and it’s felt good when I’ve watched the games. I hope that I have many good moments and good years here.”

Southampton’s executive director of football Les Reed added: “Jordy is one of the most highly sought-after midfielders in Europe.

“His qualities are plain to see for anybody who has watched his development over the past few years as closely as we have and we are delighted that he will continue his growth at Southampton.”