A French football expert has tipped Southampton's first summer signing to thrive despite an underwhelming end to last season.

Get French Football News features writer Adam White watched Romain Perraud closely before the full-back secured a switch to the Premier League by signing a four-year contract with Saints.

Perraud, who won eight caps at under-21 level for France, made 37 appearances for Stade Brest last season and showed his attacking capabilities by contributing three goals and seven assists.

The 23-year-old helped Brest to stave off relegation from the top flight by just one point and was named in France Football's Ligue One team of the season.

It resulted in Leeds United considering a move for Perraud, but Southampton beat their Premier League rivals to his signature after seeing Ryan Bertrand's contract expire and the former Chelsea man join Leicester City.

White feels Perraud will give Ralph Hasenhüttl's side a different dimension as they look to improve on finishing 15th last season.

He exclusively told Football FanCast: "He's a very attacking player but also has the defensive acumen to back it up. One-on-one he is very good defensively, his positioning is very good and he is also very good technically.

"In theory, Southampton's style of play will suit him. I think he is a really exciting player.

"I really like him as a player and he has a pretty unique skill-set. It's a big step up but I'd back him to make it."