GOALKEEPER Gavin Bazunu is set to join Belgian side Standard Liege on loan until the end of the season, the Daily Echo understands.

Bazunu, 22, is not currently registered in the Premier League squad - having been left out due to injury - but has returned to fitness in the last month.

He travelled with the squad to Portman Road on Saturday to assist with the warmups but will now depart for first-team football in the Belgian Pro League.

The Irish Independent have reported that Standard Liege sporting director Fergal Harkin played a big role in Bazunu's move to Belgium.

Harkin is Manchester City's former loan manager and has a pre-existing relationship with Bazunu from his time in the Premier League champions' youth system.

Since returning from injury, Bazunu has made three appearances for Southampton's under-21s, currently coached by Matthew Etherington.

He kept clean sheets in Premier League 2 victories over Fulham (5-0 at home) and Chelsea (2-0 away) and was between the sticks for a 4-2 win against Newcastle.

Standard Liege welcome Sam Edozie's Anderlecht to the Stade Maurice Dufrasne on Sunday, March 2.