SAINTS are set to complete the signing of former Middlesbrough goalkeeper Joe Lumley, the Daily Echo understands.

The 28 year old shot-stopper spent last season on loan at Championship Reading, who were relegated amid financial troubles.

Lumley made 41 appearances, conceding 57 goals and keeping seven clean sheets across the campaign. He has totalled 152 Championship appearances across his career.

The six-foot two-inch Englishman began his career with QPR, playing for multiple EFL clubs on loan before joining Middlesbrough on a free transfer in 2021.

As first reported by The Athletic, Lumley is expected to sign at Saints after the departure of third-choice Willy Caballero to join Leicester City’s coaching staff this summer.

The Daily Echo is told the move will likely be confirmed next week – while Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu is set to remain as number one.

Alex McCarthy is also on the books, working with goalkeeping coach Dean Thornton, and has entered the final year of his Saints contract.