Reports – Southampton close in on £3.5m deal for Sporting Lisbon defender

Southampton are closing in on the signing of Sporting Lisbon right-back Cedric, according to reports in Portugal.

The 23-year-old's contract is due to expire in 12 months' time and, after refusing to signing a new one, Sporting are willing to let him go.

Everton and Stoke City have also both shown an interest in the defender, who has been capped three times by Portugal.

But, according to O Jogo, Southampton have won the race for Cedric and seen off any interest from their Premier League rivals.

Saints have reportedly agreed a £3.5m fee with Sporting and personal terms with the player are now close to being finalised.

The arrival of Cedric could lead to the exit of current Southampton right-back Nathaniel Clyne, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United as he enters the final year of his contract.