But Southampton have pulled out of a bid to sign the Dons' Nigerian striker Efan Ekoku.

Ainsworth, 25, had attracted the attention of a number of other top-flight clubs Leeds and Everton, but Wimbledon clinched the deal by matching Vale's £2m valuation.

Dons boss Joe Kinnear said: "We have been tracking Gareth for some time and I rate him as the best player in his position outside the Premiership."

Ekoku: Too expensive for Saints

Southampton abandoned their attempt to sign Wimbledon frontman Ekoku after they were told they would gave to double their transfer record to bring him to the Dell.

Manager Dave Jones said: "I asked Wimbledon for a price and I was quoted £4m. My interest ended there and then.