Newcastle sign up Wijnaldum from PSV
Newcastle United have completed the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum from PSV Eindhoven.
Netherlands international Wijnaldum, 24, has signed a five-year contract after Newcastle agreed to pay the third highest fee in their history, reported to be £14.5 million.
IT’S OFFICIAL – @GWijnaldum signs for #NUFC! Full story: http://t.co/iDkcawZlBb. #WelcomeGini pic.twitter.com/NqbxKkmDlw
– Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 11, 2015
The midfielder becomes Steve McClaren’s first signing and the manager told the club’s official website: “This signing is a real statement for the club,
“It is a big transfer for a very good player and I am delighted to have Gini here at the club.
“He has lots of energy and a great tempo to his game. He is very skillful but is also capable of playing box-to-box and — importantly — he can score goals.
“He is at the right age and the right fit for Newcastle. He is a leader as well and you will see that. He is someone who always wants the ball, can deal with it, and we need that kind of character in the team.”
WATCH: @GWijnaldum takes a first look at St. James’ Park, and likes what he sees! #WelcomeGini #NUFC pic.twitter.com/IrL2riOffc
– Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 11, 2015
Wijnaldum, who had said last month that he was open to a move to Paris Saint-Germain, said he is excited to be moving to St James’ Park.
“I’m delighted to be a Newcastle United player,” Wijnaldum said. “I felt the time was right for me to move and the club have shown they really want me, so I’m very happy to be here.
“There’s a few players here who are from Holland — I know them well and they will help me feel at home in Newcastle.
“I know the club has a great stadium with great fans. I want to play here as soon as possible — I want to feel the atmosphere and hear the crowd. I cannot wait to get started.”
Hi @NUFC fans, here is what you can expect of @GWijnaldum. All the best with this great player! #psv #nufc https://t.co/ciXBb99WnL
– PSV (@PSV) July 11, 2015
PSV also confirmed the transfer and posted a message on their official Twitter account reading: “We’re unfortunately losing a great player but we grant this transfer to Gini.”
McClaren has said he wants to make up to five big signings this summer.
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