Southampton seal deal for Eljero Elia

The 27-year-old will initially join Saints on loan next month in a deal until the end of the season, with the option of then making the switch from the Bundesliga outfit permanent.

A statement on www.saintsfc.co.uk read: "Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce that it has reached an agreement over the signing of Eljero Elia.

"The winger will officially join Saints on Saturday 3rd January, initially on loan until the end of the season with a view to a permanent transfer next summer."