Southampton have confirmed the signing of Bordeaux forward Sekou Mara, who has signed a four-year deal.
The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1 during 2021/22, scoring six goals in 26 top flight appearances. Saints forked out €13m to Bordeaux, who need cash following their relegation to Ligue 2.
An agreement between the two sides was announced last week and Mara's medical has now been completed and the relevant paperwork finalised.
Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl said: “Sékou is coming here to score goals and has shown in the French league he can do this, now he needs to work hard and show he can do this in the Premier League.
“He is a young guy who will need time to adapt to a new country and a new league, but we are excited about his potential and what he can become in the future.”
Mara said: “I’m really happy to sign for Southampton and to be a Saint for the next years. Southampton have given me a good opportunity to progress.
Listen now to 90min's Talking Transfers podcast, with Scott Saunders, Graeme Bailey & Toby Cudworth. On the latest show they discuss Chelsea finally closing in on Jules Kounde, Man Utd's ongoing pursuit of Frenkie de Jong, West Ham's hunt for a new forward and left-back and more. Available on all audio platforms.
If you can't see the podcast embed, click here to download the episode in full!
“I’m a young player and I have to work. I think Southampton is the best club for me to develop myself and progress to be one of the best. I’m impatient to begin with this team and score goals.”
The teenager adds to Southampton's attacking options for the upcoming 2022/23 season, having seen forward Armando Broja return to Chelsea following his successful loan spell. Eight-year stalwart Shane Long also departed this summer following the expiration of his contract.
Source : 90min