Virgil van Dijk to Southampton: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

Southampton have announced the deadline-day signing of former Netherlands under-21 international Virgil van Dijk from Celtic.

Saints confirmed the deal on Twitter:

The club also took to Twitter to share the player's very first interview as a member of Saints:

BBC Sport reported earlier on Tuesday that an £11.5 million fee had been agreed between the two sides, with Van Dijk completing the switch after clinching back-to-back Scottish Premiership crowns at Celtic Park.

The Guardian's Ed Aarons noted the transfer rested on Celtic signing Dinamo Zagreb defender Jozo Simunovic as a replacement for their departing star:

Van Dijk was a prominent figure for the Bhoys after moving from Groningen in June 2013, scoring an impressive 15 goals in 105 appearances at the club, averaging more than 50 games per season.

Saints manager Ronald Koeman has again shown his preference for Eredivisie alumni after moving for the Dutch defender, while Sporting Intelligence points out that Southampton have favoured Celtic stars of late:

Victor Wanyama and Fraser Forster were the other players to make their way to Southampton from Glasgow, and fans will be hoping their latest addition will be able to attain similar success following the move.

Van Dijk will be competing alongside the likes of Jose Fonte, Maya Yoshida, Steven Caulker and Florin Gardos for a place in Koeman's back four as he completes a significant step in his career development.