Southampton sign Cedric Soares from Sporting Lisbon

Cedric Soares has played four times for Portugal after making his senior debut against France in October 2014

Southampton have signed Portugal defender Cedric Soares on a four-year contract in a deal worth up to £4.7m from Sporting Lisbon.

The 23-year-old is the club's second signing this week following the arrival of Spain forward Juanmi from Malaga.

"We have signed two exciting talents early in the window," said executive director of football Les Reed.

"We will continue in our pursuit of Premier League success and our European journey."

Right-back Soares made his senior debut for Portugal in October 2014 and has won four caps.

He was sent off as 10-man Sporting came from 2-0 behind to defeat Braga and win the Portuguese Cup in May.

Southampton will compete in the third qualifying round of the Europa League after finishing seventh in the Premier League.

"I joined this club because I believe we can do better and better every year," said Germany-born Soares.

"Everyone knows that the Premier League is a very, very good league - and maybe the best one in the world - so for me it's a pleasure to be here."

Saints' first-choice right-back Nathaniel Clyne has yet to sign a new contract and has been linked with a move to Liverpool.