SAINTS have completed the signing of Nathaniel Clyne.

As revealed by the Daily Echo, the 21-year-old became one of Nigel Adkins’ top summer targets as he strengthens his squad ahead of the big Premier League kick-off.

Saints say they have not yet agreed a compensation fee with Palace for the England under-19 and under-21 international, who has moved to St Mary’s on a four-year deal.

The defender was out of contract at Palace, but Saints owe compensation because Clyne is an academy graduate under the age of 24. If a figure cannot be agreed, then it will be set by a tribunal.

Clyne’s signing, which the club confirmed this morning, is another piece of the jigsaw for Adkins who has already brought in Jay Rodriguez and Steven Davis this summer and is looking to recruit a goalkeeper, at least one centre half and some pace out wide, as well as the potential deal for Alexander Buttner.

Adkins now has three right backs to choose from with Clyne joining Frazer Richardson and Danny Butterfield in the Saints squad.

Clyne was one of the highest rated young players in the Championship and had attracted interest from other top flight sides before Saints swooped. He broke into the Palace first-team at the beginning of the 2008/09 season, making his debut in a 3-0 home win over Barnsley.

He penned a three-year deal soon after and grew to become one of the Eagles’ key players.

Clyne won the club’s player of the year award for the 2010/11 season and last term was included in the Championship team of the year.

Clyne revealed on his Twitter page last night that he was on his way to Geneva to join up with the squad on their pre-season tour, while changing his biography to confirm he is a Saints player.