Academy seal four deadline day signings

The quartet of additions will link up with Simon Rusk's Under-21s, bolstering the young side across the pitch.

Baylee Dipepa, a 17-year-old striker, arrives after a breakthrough couple of seasons with Port Vale and commits his future to the club in a long-term deal.

With over 30 senior appearances already under his belt, Dipepa caught the eyes after making his senior debut as a 16-year-old; he won the club's Young Player of the Year award with three goals in first season of senior football in League One.

Academy Director, Andy Goldie, commented: "Baylee is an exciting young talent who has excelled at both first team and international level over the past 18 months, and is a player we're very much looking forward to developing further.

"His raw potential and quality is something we believe will not only enhance the Under-21s forward line this season, but provide him with a great opportunity to build on the success he has already had so far."

The second arrival, Noel Buck, makes the journey across the pond as he arrives on the South Coast from New England Revolution, initially on a short term loan until January.

The 19-year-old midfielder has already played over 50 senior games in the MLS after rising through the ranks in America, and has represented England at youth level by qualifying through family heritage.

"Noel joins us with over 50 professional games under his belt with New England Revolution, and representing England at various age groups." Andy Goldie reiterated.

"That experience, and how he performed on those stages, makes him a really interesting signing for us and the deal provides a great opportunity for us to work closely and learn more about his long term potential over the coming months."

In defence, Sam Tabares joins Saints after impressing over the past season in Fulham's academy, signing a deal until 2026.

The right-back only joined the London side in January 2023, but excelled at Under-18s level and broke into the Under-21s set up to earn a professional contract over the summer.

On the third addition, Goldie added, "Samuel has incredible athleticism and can play a number of positions across the back line, providing him and us with a great opportunity to continue his accelerated development from grassroots to professional football.

"He provides the Under 21s squad with much needed competition in defence and knowing his character, that’s something he will thrive in."

Finally, 18-year-old forward Rory MacLeod joins Southampton after breaking through in Scotland with Dundee United, initially on a season-long loan.

A Scottish youth international, MacLeod has been a name to follow north of the border for a few years after signing his first professional contract at just 15-years-old.

He became Dundee United's youngest-ever player when he made his debut just six days after his 16th birthday, and he went on to make 30 senior appearances with the Tangerines and out on loan.

"Having worked with Rory and seen him develop at Dundee United, I am well aware of what he is capable of when he’s at his very best." said Goldie.

"He can play across the forward positions and in midfield, this is a brilliant opportunity for him to showcase that in PL2 having already featured a number of times in the SPFL and with Scotland at various age groups."