Finn Azaz Joins Southampton for £12 Million, Eyes Promotion

Ireland midfielder Finn Azaz has officially joined Southampton from Middlesbrough for a fee of £12 million, plus add-ons, ahead of the transfer deadline on Monday. Azaz’s move comes as Southampton seeks to rebound after losing key player Mateus Fernandes to West Ham in a deal exceeding £40 million. The 24-year-old has signed a four-year contract at St Mary’s Stadium.

Azaz’s arrival is significant as he is expected to play an integral role in Heimir Hallgrimsson‘s plans for the team. He aims to contribute to the squad as they prepare for their crucial World Cup opener against Hungary at Aviva Stadium on September 2 and an away match against Armenia on September 9.

During his time with Middlesbrough, Azaz made 59 appearances and scored 17 goals. He initially joined Middlesbrough from Aston Villa, seeking regular first-team football. His debut for the Ireland national team came against Switzerland during John O’Shea‘s brief interim management, and he has since earned seven senior international caps.

In expressing his excitement about the transfer, Azaz stated, “It feels amazing. I’m really happy to be here. I’m really, really excited to prove I can play for a Premier League club.” Although currently competing in the Championship, he emphasizes the team’s ambition to operate at a Premier League level, aiming for promotion.

Ambitions and Expectations

Reflecting on his past experiences, Azaz recalled challenging matches against Southampton two seasons ago. He noted, “There are some top, top players in the group. The depth is scary, to be honest.” He recognizes that the club’s ambition aligns with his expectations to win the league and return to the Premier League.

He shared insights from his discussions with Hallgrimsson, mentioning their shared philosophy regarding football and winning. “We had an in-depth conversation about football as a whole and how to win,” he explained. Azaz appreciates Hallgrimsson’s trust in his players, stating, “I pride myself on that. It’s really refreshing.”

Having previously secured promotions with Cheltenham Town in League Two and Plymouth in League One while on loan from Aston Villa, Azaz is eager to replicate that success with Southampton. He remarked, “I’ve always believed in myself. There’s always been people telling me I can’t do it.”

Facing Challenges Head-On

Despite the challenges he faced in his career, Azaz remains undeterred. “In League One and Two, it was the same. The Championship was the same. Nobody wanted me in the Championship after the League One season,” he recalled. He is ready to demonstrate his capabilities and contribute to Southampton’s objectives.

As Southampton strives to improve on their current standing in the Championship, where they occupy 10th place, Azaz understands the heightened motivation teams will have when they face Southampton. He anticipates a competitive season ahead as they aim to secure promotion.

In summary, Finn Azaz’s transfer to Southampton marks a pivotal moment in his career, aligning with both his personal aspirations and the club’s ambitions for the season ahead. With a strong commitment to achieving success, he is poised to make an impact in the Championship and beyond.