SAINTS have signed Reading defender Alex Pearce on loan until the New Year.

The 19-year old has made eight first team appearances for the Royals this season, having come into the side after Ibrahima Sonko left the Berkshire club.

He has one senior goal to his name and also has one cap for the Scottish U21s.

He has had previous loan spells at Norwich City, Northampton and Bournemouth.

He will remain at St. Mary's until January 1, 2009.

Pearce will not be eligible to play against his parent Club when the two sides meet on November 22nd.