Southampton have confirmed the signing of Zach Awe, joining the club from Arsenal for a training compensation payment.

Southampton have confirmed the signing of Zach Awe on a three-year contract, with the defender initially set to link up with their u21 side.

“It’s amazing, it’s something I have been looking forward to for a very long time,” Awe said.

“Leaving Arsenal and seeing how Southampton play under Russell [Martin] and the plan, I’m very excited to join.

“Obviously [the Under-21s] won the league last year so it will be good to be part of that group and help improve the team and win some more games.”

Posting on Instagram recently, Awe said his farewells to Arsenal, suggesting it was his decision to leave the club at the end of his contract.

“My time at Arsenal has come to an end,” Awe confirmed. “I would like to thank the players and staff that have supported me throughout my journey at Arsenal.

“During my 10 years at the club, I have learnt so much about myself as a player and a person.

“However, I feel that it is my time to move on and I am excited about the journey ahead.”

Despite Awe technically being available as a free agent, Southampton still had to pay a compensation payment to Arsenal, as the defender is under the age of 23.

Those compensation payments are usually only applicable if the training club offers the player a new contract, so Awe’s suggestion that he chose to move on does indicate that Southampton would have to pay the fee

Southampton reportedly fought off strong competition for Awe’s signature.

Awe made 35 appearances for the Arsenal u21s in 2022/23, almost all of them starts, making him one of the busiest players in the entire squad.

The teenager was also involved in the Arsenal first-team squad in the past, making the bench for a Premier League fixture against Wolves last year.