Ireland goalkeeper Bazunu joins Bolton Wanderers

The move will provide 24-year-old Bazunu with much-needed first-team action having fallen down the pecking order at the Saints, which saw him spend an injury-plagued second half of the season at Stoke City.

Gavin Bazunu leaves the pitch after the international friendly match between Ireland and Switzerland. Pic: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile

Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu has joined Championship side Bolton Wanderers on a three-year deal from Southampton.

The move will provide 24-year-old Bazunu with much-needed first-team action having fallen down the pecking order at the Saints, which saw him spend an injury-plagued second half of last season at Stoke City.

The 22-cap international - whose last cap came in March of 2024 in a friendly against Switzerland - said he is eager to push on and "show his levels".

"It's obviously a club with massive history. I see it as a place where I can come and progress my personal career, while helping the team with their ambitions of getting back to where they belong," Bazunu told Wanderers TV.

"I want to get back to being in a position where I’m playing week in, week out and enjoying my football again. My big aim and ambition here is to play as many games as I can and show my levels.

"I’m excited to be here and excited for what’s to come. I’m sure all the other new signings will have said the same thing, but we’re excited to get going, show our qualities and show where this team belongs."