Newcastle United have signed right-back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid for £12m, plus add-ons.
Naija News reports that the England right-back has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the option of a further year.
Trippier flew into Tyneside on Wednesday in a private jet following the conclusion of talks between Atletico and Newcastle on Tuesday and would be the first signing under the club’s Saudi owners.
Kieran Trippier with Newcastle manager, Eddie Howe
Newcastle are awaiting clearance regarding Trippier’s availability to play against Cambridge United in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
Speaking on the move, Trippier said: “I really enjoyed my time in Madrid, but when I became aware of interest from Newcastle United, and having worked with Eddie Howe before, I knew this was where I wanted to be.”
He added: “I’m so happy to be joining Newcastle. Everyone knows the fans are unbelievably passionate and I will give my absolute all for them. I can’t wait to get to work.
“Thank you to everyone at Newcastle and the fans for the very warm welcome I have received so far.”
Magpies boss Eddie Howe worked with Trippier while in charge of Burnley, signing the right-back from Manchester City in January 2012.
Howie: “I am really pleased to welcome Kieran to Newcastle United. I have long admired his abilities and have followed his career, so when the opportunity arose to secure him, we didn’t hesitate.
“A lot of hard work has gone into planning for the January transfer window long before the month began, which is clear in how quickly we have been able to complete this move.”
This article was originally published on Naija News