Southampton sign Martin Caceres as Crystal Palace miss out

Crystal Palace have missed out on another transfer target as Southampton confirm the signing of Martin Caceres until the end of the season.

Sam Allardyce confirmed his interest in the former Juventus centre-back at the end of January, but Claude Puel has won the race for his signature as a replacement for Jose Fonte.

Virgil van Dijk's long-term ankle injury compounded the January exit of the Southampton captain but the signing of Caceres provides some much-needed experience.

The 29-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving the Italian champions, reportedly also turned down interest from AC Milan and insists a move to the English south coast was the right choice.

Speaking to the club's official website, Caceres said: "I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football. 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."

Caceres is unlikely to be able to slot straight into the team given he has not played since last February after undergoing surgery on a torn right Achilles tendon.

The former Barcelona and Sevilla defender could therefore miss out on the EFL Cup final against Manchester United on February 26.