Southampton are expected to complete the signing of AZ Alkmaar’s Yukinari Sugawara this summer.
That’s according to Voetbal International, who say Southampton have agreed a deal with the Dutch club over signing the 24-year-old.
The Japan international’s contract lasts until 2025 and AZ Alkmaar are looking to sell him in this window.
It’s claimed the Eredivisie side will collect €7m plus bonuses from Southampton, who have to agree personal terms with the right-back.
The report indicates this shouldn’t be an issue as he’s expected to sign a four-year deal at St Mary’s. VI add he could travel to England to undergo medical tests with the Saints soon and the deal could be completed ‘this week’.
AZ Alkmaar have signed his compatriot Seiya Maikuma to replace him in the squad next season.
Calciomercato also claim Sugawara will move to Southampton for €7m including bonuses. It’s to be noted the figure quoted by VI was excluding bonuses.
Inter Milan have followed Sugawara for a while as a possible option to replace Denzel Dumfries. He’s still at the San Siro, while the Japanese is set to join Russell Martin’s side.
The fullback first arrived in Europe when the Dutch club signed him from Japanese side Nagoya Grampus initially on loan in 2019. He made 198 appearances for AZ Alkmaar.
