Southampton have strengthened their forward line ahead of their return to the Premier League by signing Chile international Ben Brereton Díaz from Villarreal.
The 25-year-old, who was born in Stoke and qualifies for Chile through his mother, has penned a four-year deal at St Mary's for a fee reported to be in the region of £7million.
Brereton Díaz arrived at Nottingham Forest but made his name at Blackburn Rovers, scoring 47 goals in 177 games alongside current Saints striker Adam Armstrong. Thirty-eight of these came in his last two seasons at Ewood Park, a record that earned him a move to Villarreal last summer.
He struggled for game time in La Liga but a move to struggling Premier League side Sheffield United in January proved to be hugely beneficial as he scored six goals in 14 top-flight appearances.
What does Breton Díaz say?
Breton Díaz told the club's website: “I'm busy. It's been going well these past few days, and I'm glad to get everything sorted and signed. I'm so happy to meet everyone, it's great to be involved with this great club.
“Watching the club when I was young, it was always in the Premier League. It is clear that last season, the way the team played, it went down but it went back up as a team. And the gaffer too – everything is coming together, and I think it's a fantastic club. I can't wait to get started.”
Good day, @benbreo 👋
We are pleased to announce the signing of Ben Brereton Díaz on a four-year contract @VillarrealCF:
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) July 30, 2024
Martin is happy with his new striker
Saints manager Russell Martin added: “I'm delighted to welcome Ben to the team. He is a versatile and intelligent footballer, who can play in many positions in the forward line.
“He is a strong, powerful and confident runner with a great goal scoring record, including last season's Premier League where he adapted very quickly.
“He's a true team player and the type of hard-working, hungry character we want in our team. His athleticism and fitness make him fit for the Premier League, and we think he has all the tools to add to our attack.”
Breton Díaz was Southampton's second player of the day following an earlier move for Japanese midfielder Kuryu Matsuki.
The 21-year-old joins FC Tokyo and will spend next season on loan at Turkey's Goztepe.
Source link
