Newcastle United have signed ex-Sunderland midfielder Ki Sung-yueng.
Newcastle United have tonight tied up their second summer signing as midfielder Ki Sung-yueng has penned a two-year contract with the club.
The Magpies had landed loanee Martin Dubravka on a permanent basis following a successful loan move from Sparta Prague, but manager Rafael Benitez needed more new additions.
Newcastle fans have been left concerned by a lack of progress on new signings, but one move has progressed quickly this evening, handing Benitez another new face.
Reports emerging earlier this evening stated that Newcastle were in advanced talks to sign midfielder Ki Sung-yueng on a free transfer, and the Magpies confirmed just hours ago that a two-year deal had been agreed for his signature.
Ki, 29, hit two goals and two assists for Swansea City last season, and decided to move on when his stadium at the Liberty Stadium expired this summer following the Swans’ relegation.
The South Korean international – who played for his country at this summer’s World Cup in Russia – has been with Swansea for six years having signed from Celtic in 2012, but he did also spend one season with Newcastle’s bitter rivals Sunderland.
The 2013-14 campaign saw Ki head to Sunderland on loan for the season, and he became a fan favourite with four goals in 34 games, with many disappointed that the Black Cats couldn’t secure a permanent move.
Now, Sunderland fans have taken to Twitter in order to react to Ki’s return to the North East, with many begrudgingly admitting that Newcastle have made a ‘cracking signing’, with many claiming that Ki is an underrated player who impressed during his time on Wearside, which should make Newcastle fans confident that Benitez has struck a fine deal this evening.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
