Gao Jisheng Southampton Owner
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. But an agreement has now been reached for him to join Anderlecht.
Southampton statement 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,
Hoedt said: “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.”
Peter 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.”
