SAINTS have announced the signing of Brazilian midfielder Guilherme do Prado from Serie A side Cesena.

The attacking midfielder has joined on a five-month loan deal.

Saints have the option to make the switch permanent in the January transfer window.

The 28 year-old will wear the vacant number 11 shirt.

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And he could be available for tomorrow’s Carling Cup tie against Bolton Wanderers at St Mary’s, subject to Saints receiving his international clearance from the Italian FA.

Italian top-flight duo Roma and Chievo and second tier side Torino have all been linked with the player this summer.

Do Prado didn't play in Cesena's final pre-season friendly against Brescia on Saturday and was apparently at St Mary's instead to watch Saints' 1-1 draw against Leyton Orient.

Do Prado, who counts Perugia and Fiorentina among his previous clubs, joined Cesena last summer.

He played 34 times and scored nine times as they secured promotion to the top-flight.