MOUSSA Djenepo has officially completed his permanent transfer from Saints to Belgian side Standard Liege.

The Malian international, who had two years left on his contract, rejoins the Belgian Pro League club having made the move from Les Rouches to Southampton for £14million back in 2019.

Djenepo made 90 appearances during his first four seasons at St Mary's - scoring five goals and making five assists.

However, the 25 year old has been limited to just one appearance this season under Russell Martin against Gillingham in the EFL Cup.

The winger signed a new contract at Saints less than a year ago but was left out of the squad for their 5-0 defeat at Sunderland last Saturday.

Djenepo was rather surprisingly handed the captain's armband late on in Southampton's pre-season friendly against Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium back.

The club are set to receive around 3.5million Euros back for Djenepo, who has also filled in at wing-back during his time under old boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Standard Liege director of football Fergal Harkin added: "Everyone at Sclessin and in Belgium knows the qualities of Moussa Djenepo. 

"His speed, his depth, his unpredictable dribbles and his scoring ability and ability to score will be additional assets for our offensive compartment. 

"We are very happy with his return. Moussa now returns to the club of his heart where he launched his career and is eager to help the side and share the experience he has gained in the Premier League over the last few years with his teammates.”

Djenepo rejoins a Standard Liege side that are coached by former West Brom and Stoke defender Carl Hoefkens and finished seventh in the top flight of Belgian football last season.

In addition to signing the 31-time Malian international, they have also added Newcastle United loanee Isaac Hayden to their squad this week.

In a statement on the club's official website, Southampton added: "We would like to thank Moussa for his efforts during his time as a Saints player and we wish him well for the future."