SAINTS have recouped a significant portion of the money spent on the transfer of Lyanco following his confirmed move back to Brazil.

Defender Lyanco, 27, has signed for Brazilian Serie A side Atletico Mineiro with Saints receiving a fee of over £4million.

The former Torino man joined Saints in August 2021 as a direct replacement for the outgoing Jannik Vestergaard to Leicester City.

He made 49 appearances for Saints, finding the net in a 4-3 defeat at Nottingham Forest in the weeks leading up to relegation in May 2023.

Lyanco became a fan favourite for his on-pitch displays of passion and immediately involved himself in the local community.

In November 2021, he visited the homes of baby Saints fans Reggie and Evan in support of critical fundraising after the pair faced life-saving battles.

However, Lyanco departed the club on loan last summer after the arrival of manager Russell Martin, who ushered in a possession-based style.

He spent the season with Qatari Stars League outfit Al-Gharafa, who attempted to permanently sign the defender this summer before he rejected a deal.

On his departure, a Saints statement added: "The club wishes Lyanco well in his future career."