Reports earlier in the week claimed the 6ft 7in forward was in talks with both Bolton and the Saints but it was always evident during negotiations that the distinctive forward would be returning to the South Coast where he previously had a successful spell with Southampton's arch rivals Portsmouth.
Saints manager Paul Sturrock is expecting his move for Crouch to cause certain unrest amongst some parts of the St Mary's supporters due to the fierce rivalry between themselves and Pompey as is often the case when one player moves from one local club to another.
The rumour mill during the summer is continous with all and sundry being banded about as a target to generate interest by agents and various sources acting on behalf of the player. Today it is the turn of Theo Zagorakis and Carlos Kameni to be linked to Bolton. AEK Athens midfielder Zagorakis once of Leicester City is said to be a target of ourselves, Everton and Spurs after excelling during Greece's fantastic Euro 2004 campaign whilst Le Harve goalkeeper Kameni is hoping to move to England with either ourselves or West Brom according to the latest reports.