Southampton have confirmed the signing of the Uruguay defender Martín Cáceres, who has joined on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The former Barcelona, Juventus and Sevilla centre-back, a free agent since June, underwent a medical in Southampton last week but the transfer was delayed after the death of his brother in their homeland. Cáceres has now completed the move and the Saints hope that the five-times Serie A winner will strengthen their defence after the departure of José Fonte to West Ham during the January transfer window and the ankle injury suffered by Virgil van Dijk, who is not expected to return until at least April.
“I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football,” Cáceres told the Southampton club website. “I am looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates.
“Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton. I am extremely happy to have joined this club.”
Cáceres, who will turn 30 in April, has won 68 caps for Uruguay – playing in the last two World Cups – and was a Champions League and La Liga winner with Barcelona in 2008-09. Southampton will be keen to see him get up to speed but it may take some time: his last competitive match was on 3 February 2016, when he played for Juventus in a 1-0 win against Genoa.
The Southampton executive director, Les Reed, said: “In a tough situation for us, losing Virgil to injury, he will bring experience, talent and character. He has played in the biggest of games, and will provide depth to our squad.
“Two days of extensive medicals and tough fitness tests have further demonstrated his desire and positive personality.”
