Southampton have signed centre-back Nathan Wood for a reported £3m, external from Swansea City on a four-year deal.
The 22-year-old made 72 appearances in all competitions across his two seasons with the Swans, scoring one goal.
Saints boss Russell Martin previously signed the England Under-21 international in 2022 from Middlesbrough when he was charge of Swansea.
“It’s always been an attractive club,” said Wood. “Obviously the style of football is a big thing, the coaching is a big thing, and it’s a step up in leagues for me as well.
“It’s a no-brainer really when you put all those things together. It’s quite an easy decision to make.”
Southampton failed with two bids worth about £10m for Wood last summer, but after leading his side into the Premier League, Martin will reunite with the player.
Wood becomes the second centre-back to sign for Saints this week after Ronnie Edwards joined from Peterborough United on Wednesday.
His contract with Swansea was due to expire this summer, but the Welsh club triggered a one-year extension option in his deal.
Swansea have expected interest in Wood for some time, with head coach Luke Williams admitting the player’s contract situation weakened the club’s hand when it came to keeping hold of him.
“Nathan is a player I know and trust from our time together at Swansea, and someone I also tried to sign in my first job at MK Dons,” added Martin.
“He’s a top defender with tremendous physical qualities, great pace and calmness on the ball.
“He’s hungry to prove himself in the Premier League, and we want to help him achieve that.”
Earlier in the window, Adam Lallana and Charlie Taylor joined Southampton on free transfers from Brighton and Burnley respectively, while Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ loan from Manchester City became permanent after promotion.
2024-07-05 18:31:24
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