Transfer news: Norwich City loan Jos Hooiveld from Southampton

Norwich City have signed Dutch central defender Jos Hooiveld on a season-long loan deal from Southampton.

The 31-year-old, who has one year remaining on his contract at St Mary’s, initially joined Saints on loan from Celtic in the summer of 2011 before completing a permanent move in January 2012.

Hooiveld, who has made 77 appearances for Southampton, told Norwich’s official website: "I am very excited about this move. I have played at Norwich and I was very impressed with the surroundings and the atmosphere. It was a full house then and again last Saturday when I saw the Bournemouth game. 

"Everybody I have asked about Norwich says only good things. I know Gary Hooper from our time at Celtic together and he was very positive about everything at the club when I phoned him to talk about coming here. 

"I am looking forward to meeting the rest of the players in training and fighting for a place in the team. It’s a very good squad at Norwich and has every chance of doing well this season." 

Norwich boss Neil Adams added: "Jos is a very solid centre-back with experience at the top level and of course of getting promoted from this division.

“He gives us extra strength in our defence and increases competition for places which is always good.“

Meanwhile, Hooiveld’s fellow centre-back Jack Stephens has joined Swindon Town on loan until the end of January.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Robins at the end of last season.

Norwich also had deadline day dealings with Swindon after signing midfielder Louis Thompson on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee.

The 19-year-old has, however, returned to the County Ground on loan for the remainder of the season.

Adams said: "We're delighted to agree this deal. 

"We've got quite a lot of cover in midfield but Louis is a player we've identified with plenty of potential, so it's best suited for him to stay with his current club for now and we'll continue to monitor his progress."