Leicester have completed the signing of Derby captain Matt Oakley for an initial £500,000.
The former Saints midfielder is Foxes boss Ian Holloway's sixth signing this month and goes straight into the squad for tomorrow's Coca-Cola Championship clash at home to Coventry.
Oakley, 30, has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract and the deal has a number of add-ons which could earn Derby more in the future.
"This is a fantastic signing for this football club. Matt is a player with tremendous ability and I am chuffed to bits that we have been able to bring him here," said Holloway.
Rams boss Paul Jewell added: "I didn't want to lose Matt but I never believe you should stand in the way of a player when a good offer comes their way and I think this deal benefits both Derby County and the player."
Oakley left Saints for nothing in the summer of 2006 after turning down Saints' one-year contract offer.
He signed for Derby on the eve of 2006/07 and helped the Rams return to the Premiership - ironically beating Saints in the play-offs.
Oakley was twice on the winning side on his returns to St Mary's last season and will be aiming to complete a hat-trick when Leicester visit on March 3.
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