DEFENDER Lyanco has officially completed a season-long loan move to Qatari outfit Al Gharafa from Saints.

The Brazilian has made 49 appearances for Saints since joining in 2021 but has featured just once for Russell Martin’s side so far during the 2023-24 campaign.

That appearance came in the EFL Cup as Southampton lost 3-1 and crashed out against League Two Gillingham Town.

The 26 year old joins The Cheetahs with just two games of the Qatar Stars League played, with Pedro Martins’s side sitting in fifth place with four points.

Lyanco had been close to joining Turkish side Besiktas earlier in the summer but the deal fell through after a change in terms between the two clubs.

He now joins Ibrahima Diallo in making the move to Qatar from Southampton after the club were relegated to the Championship.

Saints were keen to offload Lyanco’s wages despite Jack Stephens' injury, which could see him face a lengthy period of time on the sidelines.

Following the confirmation of his departure, Lyanco took to social media to say: "I would like to thank Southampton and every single person who works for the club.

"I would also like to thank all the fans, for their love with me and my family. I end this journey with the certainty that until the last day, I fought to do my best for the club.

"Thank you for everything and see you soon."