Newcastle bring in Dutch midfielder Wijnaldum
PSV Eindhoven midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum has joined Newcastle on a five-year deal for a fee reportedly worth around €20 million (£14.4 million), the club announced yesterday.
The 24-year-old Netherlands international becomes Newcastle’s third most expensive signing of all time after Michael Owen and Alan Shearer.
Wijnaldum, who joins compatriots Tim Krul, Daryl Janmaat, Vurnon Anita and Siem de Jong at St James’ Park, said: “There are 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.”
Wijnaldum’s arrival is a major boost to manager Steve McClaren, who insisted on Thursday that he was not frustrated by the apparent lack of action in the transfer market.
McClaren said: “This signing is a real statement for the club. It is a big transfer for a very good player and I am delighted to have Gini here at the club.
“He has lots of energy and a great tempo to his game. He is very skilful, but is also capable of playing box-tobox, and — importantly — he can score goals.”
Wijnaldum, a Rotterdam-born player who came through the ranks at Feyenoord, made 130 appearances for PSV and scored 47 goals during his four seasons at the Philips Stadion.