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CONFIRMED: Billy Sharp leaves Southampton for Leeds on two-year deal
LEEDS UNITED have completed the signing of striker Billy Sharp from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.
The 28-year-old Sheffield-born frontman has agreed a two-year contract to return to Yorkshire.
Leeds were desperate to sign another established striker following the departure of Ross McCormack to Championship rivals Fulham this transfer window.
Sharp signed for Saints from Doncaster in January 2012 and struck nine goals in the final three months of their promotion-winning season.
DONE DEAL: We can now confirm the signing of Southampton striker Billy Sharp on a 2-year deal #lufc pic.twitter.com/1Pu70YO1Bq
— Leeds United FC (@LUFC) August 13, 2014
Billy is a prolific goalscorer and is tried and tested at Championship level
However, he could not force his way into any of Saints' Premier League squads and was sent out on loan to Nottingham Forest, Reading and back to Doncaster last season.
United head coach David Hockaday said: “Billy is a prolific goalscorer and is tried and tested at Championship level. He was desperate to come here and play for us. I’m delighted to welcome Billy to the club.”
Sharp could make his Leeds debut against Middlesbrough at Elland Road on Saturday.