Newcastle United have signed Christian Atsu on a permanent basis from Chelsea.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has told the club’s official website that he is happy to have signed winger Christian Atsu on a permanent basis.
The Magpies swooped to land Atsu on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea last summer, and he hit five goals and three assists as Newcastle won promotion back to the Premier League.
Whilst he made 32 league appearances, only 15 came as a starter, meaning many were unsure whether Atsu would end up winning a permanent deal with the Magpies.
Today, Newcastle have confirmed that they have signed Atsu on a permanent basis, with the Ghana international penning a four-year deal at St. James’ Park.
Atsu, 25, failed to make the grade with Chelsea following a 2013 move from Porto, spending his time out on loan with Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, Bournemouth and Malaga.
Ipswich Town’s Jordan Spence in action with Newcastle United’s Christian Atsu
The winger leaves Stamford Bridge for good without ever making an appearance for the Blues, and he will be hoping to establish himself as a key player on Tyneside after making his move permanent today.
Whilst his move is subject to a work permit, Newcastle aren’t expected to have any issues signing Atsu, and manager Rafael Benitez spoke to the club’s official website about the deal.
Newcastle United’s Christian Atsu in action with Preston North End’s Tyias Browning
The Spaniard admitted that he was happy to bring in Atsu as Newcastle’s first summer signing, having shown good professionalism and a desire to learn, suggesting that he wants to play a part in the club’s future.
“We are happy to sign a good player,” said Benitez. “He’s shown us that he’s a good professional and someone who is very keen to learn and improve. Christian has been a key part of our promotion campaign and he wants to help us to build something for the future,” he added.
Are you happy with the signing of Atsu?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
