SAINTS defender Virgil van Dijk has signed a new long term deal to keep him at St Mary's.

The Dutch centre half only joined Southampton last summer, but has now signed a new six year deal.

The new contract ties him to Saints until 2022.

It is a huge boost for Southampton, and shows the club's ambition in keeping such a high profile player at the club for the long term.

Van Dijk joined in a £11m move from Scottish champions Celtic, after Toby Alderweireld decided to opt for Spurs rather than Saints.

Since his move, the dutchman has been a revelation and is one of the front runners in the Daily Echo's Saints Player of the Season vote.

Daily Echo:

Speaking to the club's official website, van Dijk said: “I’m so pleased, I’m so happy. Me and my family have enjoyed it a lot this year.  It’s been amazing. It’s only positive. 

“The club is growing and I definitely want to grow with them, that’s how I feel. Hopefully we can make it happen. That’s the plan, to get a lot of achievements going.”

Executive Director of Football Les Reed added: "In his first year with the club, Virgil has quickly established himself as one of the top centre-backs in the Premier League, becoming an integral part of what has been another strong season for the team.

“At 24, and with significant European experience already under his belt, we believe he can be a key pillar in our squad for years to come, and we are delighted to have agreed this new deal with him. 

“Although Virgil only joined us in September we felt it was important to strengthen our commitment and we believe this also provides further indication of how serious our ambitions are for the coming years.”

It will be hoped the new deal will show manager Ronald Koeman that Saints are serious about matching his ambitions, in the hope he will extend his own contract with the club beyond 2017.