RAFA GETS ONE IN

NEWCASTLE have wrapped up the signing of Japan striker Yoshinori Muto on a four-year deal.

The 26-year-old agreed personal terms last week but sealed a £9.5m move from Mainz yesterday after being granted a work permit.

“As the first Japanese Newcastle player, I am honoured to be a player for such a big club,” he said.

“I hope to achieve good results. I would like to perform well and leave my name in Newcastle’s history.”

Toon boss Rafa Benitez said: “We were following him for quite a while.

“Hopefully he can bring us his energy and workrate and help the team to improve.” Muto was in Japan’s World Cup squad but made only one appearance – in the 1-0 group game defeat by Poland.

He has scored 20 Bundesliga goals for Mainz over the past three seasons and is Newcastle’s fifth summer signing.

Despite the latest deal Toon fans are still fearing Benitez may quit St James’ Park as his row over transfer funds rumbles on.

Benitez, who has a year left on his contract, has always insisted he is happy at Toon.

But his patience with owner Mike Ashley is at breaking point again over the owner’s reluctance to splash out.

After Wednesday night’s 4-0 friendly loss at Braga, he said: “Things are not going well off the pitch and you can see a reflection of that on the pitch.”