Released full-back Dan Harding is set to become Alan Pardew's first signing at Southampton. The ex-England U21 international is reported to be undergoing a medical at St Mary's this morning.

After his release by the Blues at the end of the season, the 25-year-old had hoped to join former loan club Reading, but new manager Brendan Rodgers closed the door on a permanent deal which had seemed on the cards during Steve Coppell's time in charge at the Madejski Stadium.

Harding subsequently joined Yeovil and Brighton on trial but is now expected to be confirmed as a Southampton player later today.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls