Southampton signs defender Forren

Southampton, England – Southampton confirmed Friday the club has completed the signing of 24-year-old defender Vegard Forren.

Forren, who signed a new 3 1/2 year deal, moves to England from Norwegian side Molde FK for an undisclosed fee.

He was crowned the best player in Norway when he won the NISO Golden Ball last November and has five international appearances for his country. He netted one goal in 30 appearances for Molde from 2007-2012.

The central defender will train with his new team on Saturday and could make his Premier League debut in Monday's home fixture against Everton.

"It's a dream come true for me," Forren told the club's official website. "Southampton is a big club in the Premier League, which is where I have always wanted to come and play football."

Forren is the first signing under newly-appointed manager Mauricio Pochettino, who replaced Nigel Adkins earlier on Friday.

The Saints are in 15th place with 22 points from 22 matches, three points clear of the drop zone.