Shane Long signs new contract with Southampton

Ireland striker Shane Long last night ended speculation about his future, as he signed a new four-year contract at Southampton.

The Tipperary man, who made the move to St Mary’s in the summer of 2014, has agreed a deal that will extend his stay with the club until 2020.

Long established himself at the Saints last season, scoring 13 goals in 34 appearances, and his value to Southampton is even more apparent with the exit of Sadio Mane and Graziano Pelle from the club.

The former Cork City striker returned to training with Saints on Wednesday ahead of the start of the 2016/17 campaign.

Executive director of football Les Reed said: “Shane has been an important asset to the team ever since his arrival at the club in 2014. His experience and character also make him an extremely valuable member of the squad off the pitch, as well as on it, and I am delighted we have strengthened our commitment with him.”

Elsewhere, Newcastle’s Georginio Wijnaldum is expected to have a medical at Liverpool today after the two clubs agreed a fee for the midfielder.

The Reds will pay a maximum of £25m for the Dutch international, taking into account various add-ons.

It is believed Wijnaldum’s former club PSV Eindhoven are due a sell-on fee for a player who moved to St James’ Park a year ago for £14.5m.

Meanwhile, Juventus have signed Croatia winger Marko Pjaca from Dinamo Zagreb.

The 21-year-old, who made three appearances for his country at Euro 2016, has signed a five-year contract to complete a move worth €23m.