Southampton sign Martin Caceres until end of the season

Southampton have signed former Juventus and Barcelona defender Martin Caceres on a deal until the end of the season.

Free agent Caceres was able to join Saints outside of the January transfer window after leaving Juventus at the end of last season.

Southampton boss Claude Puel has been keen to sign defensive cover following a longterm injury to Netherlands international Virgil van Dijk and the sale of Jose Fonte to West Ham.

Caceres, who has represented Uruguay on 68 occasions, is relishing the opportunity to get started at his new club ahead of the EFL Cup final against Manchester United on February 26.

“I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football,” the 29-year-old said. “I am looking forward to getting started with my new teammates.

“Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton. I am extremely happy to have joined this club.”

Les Reed, Southampton’s Executive Director of Football, believes the Uruguayan is “high-calibre” addition Puel's squad.

“Recruiting players in January is an extremely difficult task, and this year was a particularly challenging market for centre-backs,” Reed said.

“We set out to recruit a highcalibre player in that position during the January window so I am delighted that, following a to extensive work and persistence, we have now been able to sign Martin Caceres on a shortterm contract.

“Martin is a great talent, who has played at the very top level and won many trophies and medals. He is a very experienced international player for Uruguay and has enjoyed notable success with both Juventus and Barcelona.