Southampton bolster defence with Jan Bednarek signing and new deal for Jack Stephens

The 21-year-old Polish defender becomes manager Mauricio Pellegrino's first addition

Southampton have splashed out £5m on the defender (Getty)

Southampton have signed Poland Under-21 defender Jan Bednarek from Lech Poznan on a five-year deal.

The 21-year-old becomes manager Mauricio Pellegrino's first addition and will link up with the Saints later this month due to his involvement at Euro 2017.

Centre-back Bednarek, who reportedly cost £5m, told the club's official website: "I am so happy that I could join a club like Southampton.

"This is the moment I have worked for that makes my dreams come true.

"It only gives me motivation to work hard, to show my skills and to help Southampton to get better and better.

"I think it's a good step for me, because I have heard Southampton is such a good club for young players, so I can improve here."

Fellow defender Jack Stephens has also signed a new five-year deal at St Mary's.

The 23-year-old impressed after nailing down a first-team place following Virgil van Dijk's season-ending injury in January.

England Under-21 international Stephens, who has been with Southampton since he was 17, is highly rated by the club.

Jack Stephens in action for Southampton last season (Getty)

Executive director Les Reed said: "Our philosophy at Southampton is to turn potential into excellence, and Jack is somebody who very much embodies this.

"His progression, and the level of his performances, was one of the real highlights of last season, and we have been delighted with his development ever since he joined the club."

Stephens said: "I am absolutely delighted to extend my stay.

"It feels like home to me. I have really enjoyed my time here and am now looking forward to the next five years.

"It's a massive platform for me now because it just shows how much faith the club have put in me."

PA