What Southampton have said about new Northampton midfielder Joe O'Brien-Whitmarsh

The 21-year-old Irishman spent pre-season with Southampton’s first-team and was part of the squad that travelled to Germany for the club's training camp. He had been viewed as a potential future regular for the senior side and a loan was expected by many to be his next step, but instead he’s joined Town on a three-year deal.

How much did Cobblers pay?

The fee was described as ‘undisclosed’ but it’s unlikely to be a significant amount. Usually in these instances, the fee is nominal but the deal includes various clauses and sell-on percentages that benefit the selling club.

According to the Southampton Echo, there were a number of EFL sides interested in signing O’Brien-Whitmarsh this summer and the deal to take him to Sixfields includes ‘strong future contingencies’ for Saints to benefit if he does well.

What have Southampton said about O’Brien-Whitmarsh?

When he joined in 2024, Saints head of academy recruitment Jack Chapman said: "Joe is a bright, young player that has caught the eyes of a lot of clubs from around 15-16 years old. He's a determined personality who we're pleased to welcome and help showcase himself further. He compliments the players of a similar age already in the building, carrying the ball from midfield and scoring goals in and around the box. He'll enhance our competitive culture here and hopefully he flourishes like many of those around him."

What do fans make of it?

@SaintsFC_Youth, a social media account dedicated to following Southampton’s academy, posted: “Good luck to Joe on his move. Top lad by all accounts & a really talented player. Sometimes, a player leaves and you know they will do very well themselves. Joe is very firmly in that bracket. Look forward to following his progress.”

Here are views from other supporters...

@GreekSaint1885

He went with the first team to Germany for pre-season and played in the Carabao Cup last year. He was on loan to Acc Stan. He is an attacking midfielder and most fans are gutted he is moving on. It’s just circumstances as our academy has produced too many in his position at once. I’m sure he will do well. I understand the club have only let him go as the academy ‘conveyer belt’ is well and truly up and running again so we have more excellent young players than positions to play them in.

@seanmcd11

Watched him since he’s been young in Ireland & onto the Saints. He’s got everything ya want in a ‘modern day’ CM, 2 footed, eye for a goal, moves the ball so well whether passing or carrying. And a great kid who will work hard. Low risk, potentially a very high reward. Smart business.

@Wiggles_01

Think he’ll do really well. Looked decent for us in pre season, albeit against poor oppo. Surprised we sold him rather than loaning him out tbh. Definitely think he will end up settling at a higher level than league 2.