Southampton have signed Portugal Under-21 international midfielder Mateus Fernandes from Sporting CP on a five-year deal.

The 20-year-old joined Sporting's youth system from his local club Olhanense in 2016, and progressed through the ranks, playing regularly for the B team.

He spent last season on loan at Estoril, making 28 appearances in the Primeira Liga and helping the club reach their first cup final in 80 years.

“It’s a dream come true to come to England and play in the Premier League," Fernandes told Southampton's official website.

"It’s the best league in the world, in my opinion. It has the best coaches, the best players, the best teams. It’s good for me, for my growth and I’m happy.

“I know some things about Southampton. I know about the city. I know Jose Fonte played here, Cedric [Soares], so I want to talk to them. I spoke to the manager and I like him a lot - his energy, his feeling, he’s very good."

Southampton manager Russell Martin added: “Mateus is a player we have been monitoring for a while and someone we are really excited about. He brings great energy, retains possession well and always looks for the forward pass.

“He is young and full of enthusiasm to come and play for Southampton. With the ability he has to drive forward from midfield, we think he has some key attributes to really help us - not just in the future, given his age, but here and now in the Premier League.”