Fulham have confirmed the permanent signing of midfielder Harrison Reed from Southampton for a fee believed to be £8m.

The tigerish midfielder enjoyed an outstanding loan spell at Craven Cottage, making 27 appearances as the Whites sealed a return to the top flight at the first time of asking via the Championship play-offs. Despite initially struggling with injuries, the 25 year-old firmly established himself as a key figure in Scott Parker’s midfield – and Fulham were keen to activate the option triggering his return on a permanent basis.

Reed, who has signed an initial four-year contract with Fulham retaining an option to extend the deal for another year, told Fulham FCTV:

“I’m absolutely buzzing to finally get it done and to be here as a permanent player, I’m absolutely over the moon. It’s going to be an exciting season, it’s a big challenge this year, but I can’t wait to get going, to get back training, and I’m really looking forward to the challenge. I’m absolutely delighted to be here and commit my future to the club.”

Reed becomes Fulham’s third summer signing following in the footsteps of Antonee Robinson and his former Southampton team-mate Mario Lemina.