Newcastle completes signing of Georginio Wijnaldum from PSV Eindhoven
It's official: Georginio Wijnaldum is heading to St. James' Park.
Newcastle United made its first signing under new manager Steve McClaren on Saturday, completing the signing of the 24-year-old midfielder from PSV Eindhoven on a five-year deal that represents the third-highest transfer fee in the Tyne-Wear club's history after Michael Owen and Alan Shearer.
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
Wijnaldum, who was named Dutch Footballer of the Year following a 2014-15 season in which he notched 14 goals and three assists as PSV captured the Eredivisie title, will join Newcastle for a transfer fee reportedly believed to be in the region of £12 million.
Newcastle have confirmed the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum. Here's a little bit more about the Dutchman. #SSNHQ pic.twitter.com/VuE7xZZ6b6
— Sky Sports News HQ (@SkySportsNewsHQ) July 11, 2015
"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."
Proud to be a @NUFC player ⚫️⚪️ pic.twitter.com/I8wMW6KCXT
— Georginio Wijnaldum (@GWijnaldum) July 11, 2015
The Dutch midfielder also took to Instagram to thank supporters of PSV for their support over the past four years, writing: "To all the amazing PSV fans I want to thank you all for four fantastic years. Winning the title for you guys last season was one of the happiest moments in my life. I hope you will understand that I now have to take the next step in my career.
"In joining Newcastle United I think I will be playing for a club whose fans are just as passionate as you guys at PSV. Love and success always to you all."