#PLStories- #WesleyHoedt joins Anderlecht on permanent deal from Saints #SAINTSFC

The defender, who has not featured for Saints since November 2018, has signed a four-year deal with the Belgian club, who are managed by former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany. Hoedt, 27, arrived at Saints from Lazio for £15million in 2017, but only made 45 appearances, scoring once. After featuring regularly during his first season at the club under former boss Mauricio Pellegrino, Hoedt eventually fell out of favour when Mark Hughes took over. The Dutchman joined Celta Vigo on loan in January 2019, before another temporary move followed, this time to Royal Antwerp during the following transfer window. Hoedt then returned to former club Lazio on loan in October of last year, playing 26 times in Serie A, Coppa Italia and the Champions League. Capped six times by the Netherlands, Hoedt still had one year remaining on his contract at Saints. But an agreement has now been reached for him to join Anderlecht. A brief statement from Saints read: "Southampton Football Club have come to an agreement in principle with Belgian Pro League side Anderlecht for the transfer of defender Wesley Hoedt, ahead of the deal being formally completed on June 21. "The club would like to thank Wesley for his service and wish him all the best for the future." Hoedt, who will wear the number four shirt at Anderlecht, told their website: “The contacts between RSC Anderlecht and myself have been going on for more than a year now. "There was an immediate click with (sporting director) Peter (Verbeke) and Vincent but we had to wait for the right moment. "For me, the choice for RSC Anderlecht is primarily a sporting choice. I want to help make this project a success, to go for the highest again. "It is up to myself and (teammate) Lior (Refaelov) to give the dressing room the necessary maturity. And help the many young players develop to the fullest.” Verbeke added: “With Hoedt, we add leadership and experience to the team. This balance is necessary to allow our many young players to develop optimally and to strive for results. "Wesley is also good on the ball and plays with guts and confidence, which fits very well with the football this club wants to bring.”