Report: Southampton close in on Romanian defender Florin Gardos

Romanian centre-back Florin Gardos has apparently undergone a medical at Southampton ahead of his proposed transfer from Steaua Bucuresti.

The 25-year-old, who can also operate in midfield, has made 12 international appearances and played against Chelsea in the Champions League last season.

He is expected to be a direct replacement for Dejan Lovren, who left St Mary's for Liverpool last month, and could partner Jose Fonte, who has been named the club's new captain, in their defence this term.

Fonte has succeeded Adam Lallana as skipper in a huge summer turnaround which has also seen Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert and Calum Chambers leave the Saints, as well as manager Mauricio Pochettino.

New Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has moved to rebuild his squad with the signings of Ryan Bertrand and Saphir Taider on loan, and goalkeeper Fraser Forster, while Gardos could be next through the door, according to Sky Sports News.