Anderlecht striker completes switch to Premier League
Newcastle United Football Club have announced the signing of Anderlecht striker Aleksandar Mitrović, subject to the player obtaining a visa.
The Serbian has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League over the past few weeks, with Newcastle and Chelsea both interested, but it’s The Magpies that have got the deal over the line.
The 20-year-old has been at St James Park over the past couple of days undergoing medical checks and completing all the appropriate paperwork.
Mitrovic has signed a long-term contract at Newcastle, penning a five-year deal, after the two clubs agreed on a fee reportedly around £13million.
During his two years in Belgium, the 20-year-old striker netted 44 goals in 90 appearances for Anderlecht, and after arriving in England, he spoke to Newcastle’s official website.
Mitrovic Statement
He said: “I am so happy to have signed for Newcastle.
“I visited the stadium and it is amazing. I have played in a lot of impressive stadiums in my career but St. James’ Park is so big, I can’t wait to play my first game here.
“I know how passionate the fans are. This is a club with a very big history and the fans are a big part of that. There will be pressure here, for sure, but I like pressure.
“I also know about the famous players who have played for Newcastle United, like Alan Shearer, who is a hero of mine. I hope I can play like him for this Club. It will be an honour.”
Steve McClaren also spoke to the club’s official site after they announced their second major summer signing.
McClaren Statement
McClaren added: “This is a fantastic signing for us. We have fought off a lot of competition to secure a top young talent in Europe.
“Aleksandar is someone who can develop with the team and someone who will help us to get to where we want to go.
“As a Board we have worked hard to make it happen. It is another demonstration that we are wanting to push on.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
