Southampton have confirmed the capture of Lille attacking-midfielder Sofiane Boufal for an undisclosed, club record fee on a five-year deal.
Moroccan international Boufal became one of the most sought after players in Ligue 1 after a strong season and a half with the French club, having joined from Angers back in 2015.
The 22-year-old showed strong form throughout the duration of the 2015-16 season, finishing with 11 goals and four assists from his 29 appearances in the league.
“I’m very, very happy to sign for Southampton and I am really excited to play in St Mary’s Stadium in front of the fans,” the new signing said.
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“Southampton showed big interest in signing me, and I can see that this club is the best place for me to continue my progression as a footballer.
“I hope I can achieve many great things with Southampton. It is a very good club, with excellent facilities, and I feel it is the perfect environment to continue my development.”
Executive Director of Football Les Reed says he is excited what the midfielder can add to the team going forward.
“Sofiane is a player we have watched develop closely over the last few years, and we’re thrilled to have him join the club ahead of what promises to be a very exciting season,” he said.
“We’re delighted that Sofiane sees Southampton as the best place for him to continue his development.
“Sofiane had a delayed start to his pre-season training and will be working very hard with our fitness staff to get up to full match fitness.
“At just 22 years of age, he will undoubtedly continue to improve as a player, and we’re very pleased that he will be able to make that progression with us here at Southampton.”
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