Southampton have agreed a four-year contract with Bordeaux striker Sekou Mara.
Saints head coach Ralph Hasenhuttl has cast a wider net this summer in search of hidden talent, making the 19-year-old his sixth signing of the transfer window.
Mara had been linked with Premier League rivals Leeds and Newcastle, as well as German club Borussia Monchengladbach.
Last season, the France U21 international scored six goals in 26 Ligue 1 appearances for Bordeaux, who were relegated after finishing bottom of the table.
In the midst of financial difficulties, the club has decided to sell one of its prized assets.
Mara said: “I’m really happy to sign for Southampton and to be a Saint for the next years. Southampton have given me a good opportunity to progress.
“I’m a young player and I have to work. I think Southampton is the best club for me to develop myself and progress to be one of the best. I’m impatient to begin with this team and score goals.”