SAINTS have completed the signing of striker Ross Stewart from Sunderland.

The 27 year old Scotland international has agreed a contract that runs until 2026 at St Mary’s.

He becomes the second arrival on transfer deadline day, following Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ loan move from Manchester City.

Stewart joins Saints after a prolific spell at Sunderland, where he scored 40 goals in 81 appearances after signing for the Black Cats in January 2021 from Ross County.

The forward, who is currently approaching a return to fitness having been sidelined this year with an Achilles injury, has been capped twice for Scotland and becomes the eighth addition of the summer to Russell Martin’s Men’s First Team.

Director of Football Jason Wilcox said: “Ross is a really dynamic and intelligent player, so we’re delighted to have added him to the group.

“His form and development over the past couple of seasons have been very impressive, and we’re confident this will be a great place for him to continue that.

“He’s got a fantastic work-rate and he’s a great character too, so we believe he’ll be a really popular addition and an excellent fit for us.”

Ross Stewart added: “I’m absolutely delighted. It’s been a really long day, but it’s been really good too. In the end, I’m delighted to get everything done in time and I can move forward now.

“Southampton is a massive club. In recent years it’s been a Premier League club and for me it’s a great challenge to come down here and play football for a team that’s going to be competing at the top of the league.”