Dan takes a pay cut

Petrescu passed a medical early this morning to complete a move to Southampton. The fee is understood to be "nominal".

And Dell chairman Rupert Lowe revealed: "Dan has taken a pay cut to come here which is good for the club.

"He is keen to come and play and it's a good deal for us.

"We've stood our ground and in the end he has come to us on our terms."

The Romanian international, believed to be on £15,000 a week at Valley Parade, could have joined Saints in the summer from Chelsea but instead opted for City.

Lowe said: "The package is pretty similar to what we were happy to do before."

Petrescu, who has agreed a two-and-a-half year contract, trained with Saints for the first time today and is likely to be on the bench when they play Charlton tomorrow.

Bantams boss Jim Jefferies said: "He wasn't part of my plans here and I hope things work out for him.

"Dan is 33 and as an experienced player, there's no point in him hanging about if he is not going to play regularly.

"Glenn Hoddle knows him well and this is a good opportunity.

"It doesn't matter to me if Dan does it for Southampton. It's what players do for Bradford that is my concern and I felt he wasn't the right player in our situation."

Lowe said: "They are looking to reduce the wagebill and Glenn is delighted. It gives him another option and this is a good time to strengthen.

"Glenn rates Petrescu from his time at Chelsea and was keen to sign him.

"He is a model professional who will fit in well. Last year he had an outstanding season for Chelsea although this one hasn't worked out as well for him."

Second Division Swindon have failed with a cheeky bid for Stan Collymore who yesterday turned down a month's loan at Sheffield United.

A club spokesman said: "Stan's father Steve lives in Swindon so we thought he might be tempted."

Jefferies said: "We've not heard anything factual, just the rumours.

"Some players go instantly while some will always take a little longer."