Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Southampton FC transfer news: Claude Puel lands France Under-21 goalkeeper Mouez Hassen from former club Nice

Southampton FC transfer news: Claude Puel lands France Under-21 goalkeeper Mouez Hassen from former club Nice

Southampton __have signed goalkeeper Mouez Hassen on loan from Nice for the remainder of the season.

The move sees Hassen reunited with Saints boss Claude Puel, with the two having worked together previously at the French club.

The 21-year-old came through the youth ranks at Nice and has made 50 appearances for the Ligue 1 title chasers.

But the France Under-21 international has not featured at all for the club this season and will now head to England.

Speaking about his arrival at St Mary’s, Hassen said: “I am really happy. It’s a pleasure for me to come to England for the first time and I am really happy to get to know the Premier League.

“I am really looking forward to joining the team.”

Southampton's director of football, Les Reed, added: “Mouez is a promising young goalkeeper, and we are very pleased to __have been able to bring him to Southampton.

“He has built an excellent reputation during his time with Nice and also in his country’s youth teams, and will provide us with further depth in the months ahead.

“As well as adding to our squad, we believe Mouez can continue his development in his time at Southampton and make strides in his own game under the expert guidance of our Head of Goalkeeping, Dave Watson, as well as working alongside Fraser Forster.

“Harry Lewis has had opportunities and gained great experience while Alex McCarthy has been injured, and Stuart Taylor has brought excellent experience to the group and now Mouez will add to our strength in depth.”