Saints close to sealing free transfer of out-of-contract Burnley defender

SAINTS are close to confirming the signing of Burnley defender Charlie Taylor on a free transfer next month.

The 30 year old made 28 appearances for Vincent Kompany's relegated side in the Premier League last season.

The left-back has operated in a possession-based system under the former Clarets boss and will become an option for Russell Martin.

The Daily Echo understands Taylor will sign a two-year deal at St Mary's, in a move which will be confirmed after his current deal expires.

His contract at Turf Moor ends on June 30 and Saints hope to conclude a deal on July 1 - but confirmation could be moved back.

Burnley defender Charlie Taylor is likely to sign for Saints (Image: PA)

The former England youth international played a key role in Burnley's promotion to the Premier League during the 2022/23 season.

He made 220 appearances for the club, scoring his first goal in a 2-1 defeat at AFC Bournemouth in October 2023.

Taylor brings 161 matches of Premier League experience and could compete for Republic of Ireland international Ryan Manning's spot.

Speaking at the start of his season-long loan at Burnley during the 2022/23 campaign, Saints defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis praised Taylor.

He said: "He's helped me massively with his experience playing in the Premier League for so long.

"He's been class and you wouldn't think he was a left-back playing centre-back. We compliment each other really well and hopefully, it can carry on."

Young Spaniard Juan Larios - still just 20 years old - is targeting a return to action in pre-season having been sidelined by injury since November 2022.