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Manolo Gabbiadini's Premier League switch is finally complete after he joined Southampton on deadline day and the striker revealed how Graziano Pelle helped convince him the move was a good idea.

The former Napoli man, who has six caps for Italy, bolsters Claude Puel's options up front after Charlie Austin was ruled out with a long-term injury.

He has scored three goals in 13 Serie A appearances for the Naples side so far this season and has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at St Mary's.

Manolo Gabbiadini holds a Southampton shirt after completing a move to the Premier League

Gabbiadini flew in from Italy on Monday night and had his medical on Tuesday morning, but it was only with hours left of the transfer window that the £17million move was confirmed.

The Italian was also linked with Everton at one stage, but Saints soon emerged as the clear front runners. 

After his arrival was announced by the Saints, Gabbiadini explained his emotions after making the switch to the Premier League.

'I'm very, very happy,' he told the club's official website.

'It was a month I was waiting for this moment to arrive. I can't wait to start. 

'Since a kid it has been my dream to perform in one of the best leagues in the world, so now this has happened I can't wait to start playing.

'The determination from Southampton to purchase me (made Gabbiadini want to sign) and of course all the things that my former team-mate in the national team, Graziano Pelle, told me about the club.'

Southampton have concluded a £17million deal for former Napoli striker Gabbiadini