The 30-year-old former Rangers keeper has agreed terms and passed a medical with the Saints, putting pressure on Welsh intwernational Paul Jones.

The club is now rushing through his registration in time for Wednesday's game against Chelsea.

Niemi will train with manager Gordon Strachan and his new team-mates on Tuesday and should Southampton meet the noon deadline, he is set to go straight into the side.

The Finn will compete for a starting place with Jones.

Jones endured a miserable game against Croatia last week when his fumble cost Mark Hughes' side a famous win, but Strachan is convinced Niemi's arrival will bring out the best in him.

"He (Niemi) is the right age and price and has a good character and he will increase competition in that area. That has worked well for us in the past," said Strachan.

"He is the Finnish number one and his quality can be seen by the fact he keeps Peter Enckelman out of the national side," said club chairman Rupert Lowe.

"And he played an absolute blinder to keep out Germany so that England qualified for the World Cup.

"We are confident he will be a tremendous addition to our squad and the fans will love him although it will be up to Gordon Strachan whether he plays on Wednesday evening."