📸 Jan Bednarek says emotional farewell to Southampton after Porto switch | OneFootball

Jan Bednarek has said his goodbyes to Southampton fans after completing a permanent transfer to FC Porto earlier this week.

The 29-year-old Poland international brought an end to his eight-year spell at St Mary’s by posting a farewell message on Instagram on Tuesday afternoon, following the official confirmation of his move to Portugal. Southampton had announced the deal on Monday, stating that the transfer remains subject to international clearance.

“Thank you, Saints,” read the message from Bednarek, who joined the club in 2017 from Lech Poznań. His post marks the end of a chapter that saw him become a regular fixture in the heart of Southampton’s defence, making more than 250 appearances across all competitions.

The centre-back played under a succession of managers and helped the club maintain their Premier League status for several seasons before their relegation in 2023. He stayed with the team during their first campaign back in the Championship, playing a key role under Russell Martin.

Despite interest from other clubs in recent windows, Bednarek remained committed to the Saints before agreeing a four-year deal with Porto this summer. The Portuguese side paid a reported €7.5 million fee, according to O Jogo.

Southampton paid tribute to Bednarek via their official channels, thanking him for his service and wishing him well in the next stage of his career. Fans also joined in with tributes on social media, with one supporter writing simply: “Goodbye number 35.”

His move to FC Porto sees Bednarek join a club with regular European ambitions, offering him a new challenge in a different environment after spending the majority of his professional career in England.

As Bednarek begins his new adventure in Portugal, Southampton continue their own summer rebuild, with attention now turning to other potential outgoings — including goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who is the subject of ongoing talks with Newcastle United.

For now, though, the focus is on a defender who leaves behind a legacy of consistency, commitment, and professionalism — and who departs with the respect of the Southampton faithful.

📸 Dan Istitene - 2025 Getty Images