'Dream come true' - Saints sign defender Edwards on permanent deal

SAINTS have announced the signing of talented young defender Ronnie Edwards on a four-year deal.

The highly sought-after 21 year old arrives from League One outfit Peterborough United for an initial fee of £3million.

Edwards has built up an impressive bank of experience at an early age, with 143 first team appearances to his name across the last four seasons.

Speaking on the move, Edwards said: “I’m buzzing to be here. It’s a massive club and I can’t wait to get started.

“Obviously from what happened last year, they had an unbelievable season. The manager seems like he’s got a great bunch of lads.

"They’ve got a real togetherness, and the style of play Southampton plays suits me the best. I’m excited to get going."

He concluded: "It’s a dream come true for anyone, so I’ve got to be excited and obviously looking forward to it.”

A graduate of the Barnet youth academy, Edwards moved to the Football League in August 2020 at the age of 17.

He quickly established himself as a Posh regular by the start of the 2021/22 Championship campaign, in which he was voted the club’s player of the season.

Edwards has regularly represented England at youth level, competing in major tournaments and captaining the under-20s side.

Edwards won the EFL young player of the month award in January 2024 before helping his side lift the EFL Trophy at Wembley in April.

Russell Martin said: “Ronnie is a supremely talented footballer with a lot of games already under his belt and a healthy level of experience, even at 21 years of age.

“He shows amazing courage to play and possesses all the attributes we would look for in a young defender.

"He’s so excited for the opportunity to play in the Premier League and we can’t wait to get to work with him.”