Southampton complete Svensson deal

Southampton have completed the signing of Swedish defender Michael Svensson from French club Troyes.

The 26-year-old international centre-half has signed a four-year contract at St Mary’s after completing a £2m (€3.1m) switch.

Saints manager Gordon Strachan is looking forward to bringing Svensson into his squad for the forthcoming Premiership season.

Strachan said: "I am looking forward to working with Michael next season.

"He will broaden my defensive options and strengthen a squad which already has some first-class professionals."

Chairman Rupert Lowe has also welcomed the signing of a player who was in Sweden’s World Cup squad.

Lowe said: "I met with Michael yesterday and was very impressed with his professional attitude.

"I look forward to working with him and all our staff to build on the success of last season."

Svensson, a non-playing member of Sweden’s World Cup squad, will join his international team-mate and namesake Anders Svensson at St Mary’s.

Troyes coach Jean-Claude Bonnevay told PA International earlier today: "It’s true that Svensson will play for Southampton in the next campaign."

Svensson, who has 11 caps for his country, has played in his homeland for Skillingaryds, IFK Vernamo and Halmstads - where he earned two Swedish league winner’s medals.

The 6ft 2in defender moved to Troyes last year, for a small fee, and made 23 appearances before opting for a switch to the Premiership.