Do Prado scored nine goals in Cesena's promotion campaign

Southampton have signed Brazilian midfielder Guilherme do Prado on loan until January from Italian side Cesena.

Saints boss Alan Pardew has an option to make the deal permanent if the 28-year-old - known as "Guly" - impresses during his stay at the club.

Do Prado scored nine goals last season, as Cesena won promotion to Serie A.

Pardew told BBC Radio Solent: "We'd like to think that he'll add to our attacking prowess. We're not flowing with goals like we were last year."

He added: "He's a player who excelled in Serie B - he's a central midfielder who is comfortable in possession.

"We're taking something of a risk taking him from Serie A to League One, but we're confident that he'll be able to make the switch."

Saints are hoping to have international clearance in time for do Prado to play in the Carling Cup second round tie against Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday.

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