Southampton filled in a big gap in their back line when they completed the hugely anticipated signing of centre-back Martin Caceres. The Uruguayan was linked with Saints all throughout January, and the fact that it got delayed and Barcelona also apparently interested in him, had created a doubt among the fans.
The former Juventus and Barcelona defender, who was a free agent, has signed until the end of the season. In unveiling the news, he said, “I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football,” said the 29-year-old, who has not played a game for over a year. “Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton.”
Southampton had one of the best defensive records in the league until the December last year, but things have pretty much changed now with the Saints conceding 15 goals in the past one month. Puel could never really replace former skipper Jose Fonte after the Portuguese international moved to London side West Ham United last month and the injury to their best defender, Virgil van Dijk, has further worsened the situation for them.
Jack Stephens and Maya Yoshida have been pretty shaky at the back and this move comes as a huge relief to the fans. Caceres has played for some of the biggest European clubs before a ruptured Achilles tendon stalled his progress.
He had made 77 appearances for Italian champions Juventus across three seasons when he won the Serie A title four times. A youth product of Uruguayan side Defensor Sporting Club, Caceres has played in some of the biggest clubs across Europe, like Sevilla, Barcelona and Juventus. He won the La Liga and the Champions League during his time at Nou Camp.
Since making his debut for the national team back in 2007, he has earned 69 caps and scored 3 goals for the national team. He has been a regular in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League football and Palace will have a top-level defender if they manage to land him.
The Uruguayan is known for his outstanding athleticism and strong physique and as someone who could outmuscle any opponent. His speed both on and off the ball is marvellous and he will undoubtedly be a level up for Palace’s defence who are short on quality.
With a defensive leader at the back to lead the pack, things are looking positive for Southampton now.
