Wesley Hoedt is on the verge of joining Southampton in a £17m deal from Lazio

Lazio sporting director Ighli Tare has confirmed that Wesley Hoedt will be joining Southampton.

Sky sources reported last week that the Saints were in advanced talks to sign the 23-year-old Netherlands international centre-back.

Sky in Italy believe the south-coast club offered an initial £15.5m but are now reporting the final deal is worth £17m.

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Tare told Italian broadcaster Premium Sport: "He requested to be transferred. He wants to be a starter in England and will be transferred to Southampton in the near future.

"He has had a positive experience here in Rome. I wish him all the best."

Sky Sports News understands former AZ Alkmaar man Hoedt's arrival would not have implications on the future of want-away centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

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Southampton have consistently maintained Van Dijk is not for sale this summer and have been in the market for a new centre-half regardless.

Saints boss Mauricio Pellegrino is hoping to reintegrate Van Dijk, who has been a target for Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea, back into the squad. He has not played for Southampton yet this season.