Southampton have completed the permanent signing of Canada international striker Cyle Larin from Spanish side RCD Mallorca following a successful loan spell at St Mary’s.
The 31-year-old arrived on loan during the winter transfer window with an option to make the deal permanent and has now committed his future to the club by signing a two-year contract, with the possibility of an additional one-year extension.
Larin made an immediate impact after arriving on the south coast, scoring with his first touch in a 1-0 victory over Watford on his debut. He went on to enjoy an impressive second half of the campaign, finding the net eight times in 16 Championship appearances.
His goals played a key role in Southampton’s push for promotion as the Saints reached the Championship play-offs, although their campaign ultimately ended in controversy after the club was expelled from the competition following allegations of spying on opposition training sessions.
The experienced forward arrives with an impressive international pedigree. Larin has scored 30 goals in 89 appearances for the Canadian national team and is expected to spearhead Canada’s attack at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Speaking after completing the move, Larin expressed his delight at returning permanently.
“I’m just very happy to be back. From the first day I came into Southampton I was very welcomed by the staff and the players. Scoring with my first touch helped a lot, and I quickly developed a strong connection with the team. We had a great season together and I really felt I wanted to continue here,” he said.
Larin becomes Southampton’s second permanent signing of the summer following the arrival of goalkeeper Daniel Peretz from Bayern Munich.
Southampton technical director Johannes Spors praised the striker’s contribution and commitment to the club.
“It was clear from the first minute that Cyle and Southampton were a very good fit, and that he complemented Tonda Eckert’s attacking options extremely well,” Spors said.
“Cyle, like Daniel Peretz, was not obligated to make this move as part of the previous loan agreement. He chose to stay with us ahead of joining other clubs, which underlines his commitment to helping us achieve our goals.”
With his goalscoring ability, international experience and proven impact at St Mary’s, Southampton supporters will hope Larin can play a major role as the club pursues its ambitions in the seasons ahead.
