Southampton sign striker Larin after loan spell

Southampton have signed Canada striker Cyle Larin on a permanent deal from Spanish club RCD Mallorca.

The 31-year-old joined on loan with an option to buy on deadline day in the winter transfer window and has now signed a two-year deal at St Mary's with a potential extension of another year.

After scoring with his first touch on debut in a 1-0 win against Watford, Larin went on to net eight goals in 16 Championship games.

His output in his first season in English football helped Saints reach the play-offs before they were expelled for spying on opposition training sessions.

Larin has scored 30 goals in 89 caps for Canada and will lead the line for his country at the World Cup which is being held in the USA, Mexico and his home nation.

"I'm just very happy to be back," Larin said. "From the first day I came into Southampton I was very welcomed by the staff, the players, and then just how it started, to score on my first touch, I think it helped very much.

"I just connected well with the team and the staff and we just had a great season, and I really felt I wanted to continue."

Larin becomes Southampton's second signing of the summer after goalkeeper Daniel Peretz also made his move from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich permanent.

Southampton technical director Johannes Spors said: "It was clear from the first minute that Cyle and Southampton were a very good fit, and that he complemented Tonda's [Eckert] attacking options extremely well.

"Cyle, like Daniel Peretz, was not obligated to make this move as part of the previous loan agreement. He chose to stay with us ahead of joining other clubs, underlining his commitment to helping us achieve our goals."