REPUBLIC of Ireland youth international Romeo Akachukwu has agreed to sign for Saints, the Daily Echo understands.

Akachukwu, set to turn 18 years old this summer, is a promising attacking midfielder playing for Waterford in the League of Ireland.

The youngster made 16 appearances in Ireland’s second tier last season and established himself as a regular player.

He scored a hattrick against Athlone Town in the promotion play-off quarter-final and has remained in the first team following the club's promotion to the top flight.

An excellent long-range strike from Akachukwu against Wales went viral on social media last May as the midfielder represented his country at the Under-17 European Championships.

The Daily Echo understands Saints have beaten interest from the likes of European giants Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan to land Akachukwu’s signature.

The agreement ends a lengthy pursuit for the player, with more than 12 months of work put in to land the promising talent.

Akachukwu, who was linked to Manchester United and Newcastle United earlier last summer, was a guest at Southampton’s 4-4 draw with Norwich City in August.

The youngster and his family were welcomed by new academy director Andy Goldie while he was also given a tour of the facilities earlier that week to tempt him to join.

Following Brexit, Premier League and EFL clubs are not allowed to finalise the registration of foreign players until they are 18 years old.

Saints hope Akachukwu will be able to link up with the under-21s for pre-season, with a busy schedule of games announced by the club this week.