Southampton have completed the £12m signing of midfielder, Carlos Alcaraz on a four-and-a-half year contract.
Alcaraz joins from Argentina’s Racing Club where he graduated through their youth academy to score 12 goals in 83 senior appearances, including nine goals in 42 appearances last season after having made his first-team debut aged 17 in January 2020.
Speaking about his decision to join Southampton who are fighting for Premier League survival, Alcaraz said: “I’m very happy to be becoming part of this club. I knew that it would be a new challenge for me and for my career, so I wanted to take that, knowing that I would be joining a great club.
“I can’t wait to get started training and playing, and I’m ready to give 100 per cent for this club, for this shirt. I’m looking forward to meeting all my teammates, and I’m ready to give it my all.”
Saints manager, Nathan Jones added that Alcaraz’s arrival comes amidst “a lot of interest around Europe,” so is pleased to secure the midfielder quickly just hours before Southampton shocked Manchester City to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
On what Alcaraz will add to the midfield selection, Jones commented: “He will give us a really exciting option and add a bit more creativity into the side, which is something that will be a real benefit to us.
“I know how determined he is to get started and to help us, so we’re looking forward to getting to work with him and we’ll also make sure he has all the support needed to get settled in here.”
Alcaraz could make his debut for Southampton away to Everton in a crunch Premier League match at Goodison Park on Saturday 14 January at 3pm GMT, before making his home debut a week later against Aston Villa at St Mary’s Stadium on 21 January.