Southampton sign Maarten Stekelenburg on long-term loan deal from Fulham

Southampton are bracing themselves for life without Fraser Forster as his status for the beginning of the season is unknown because of a season-ending knee injury.

The Premier League side announced that they have agreed to a deal with Maarten Stekelenburg on a season-long loan from Fulham.

"While Fraser Forster’s rehabilitation is progressing well, adding Maarten to our squad alongside Kelvin Davis and Paulo Gazzaniga will give us strength in depth for what will be a busy season.

"Maarten enjoyed tremendous success in Holland with Ajax and on the international stage, playing in the 2010 World Cup final. His experience will be invaluable to us, especially with the arrival of European football," executive director of football Les Reed said.

"There was strong competition for Maarten’s services, so we are very pleased he has committed to our cause."

The Dutch 'keeper is set to embark on his second season-long loan spell after spending last season with AS Monaco in Ligue 1, where he struggled to find a spot in the first team behind Danijel Subasic. The move to Southampton, however, could present a good opportunity for consistent playing time, including a chance to perform in the Europa League following the team's impressive campaign in the Premier League.

"It’s a big, nice club that will play European football – and I can play. Last year I didn’t play a lot, so it’s an opportunity for me. I’m grateful," Stekelenburg said.

It's been a busy start to the transfer season for the Saints despite the window being closed until the end of the month. Stekelenburg becomes the team's third signing after agreeing to terms with Juanmi and Cédric Soares.