Confirmed: Newcastle complete singing of Ajax midfielder Siem De Jong
Newcastle have confirmed the signing of Ajax midfielder Siem de Jong on a six-year deal for an undisclosed fee. The attacking midfielder, who can also play as a striker, is the first permanent signing for Alan Pardew’s squad for 18 months.
The last permanent first-team arrivals at the club came in January 2013, when Pardew secured deals for Kevin Mbabu, Moussa Sissokho, Mathieu Debuchy, Massadio Haidara, Yoan Gouffran and Mapou Yanga Mbiwa, with last season’s arrivals both coming on loan.
De Jong, who was captain at Ajax, has six international caps and two international goals. He told the club’s official site of his excitement at signing for the Magpies, for whom his younger brother – Borussia Monchengladbach striker Luuk – played on loan last season.
BREAKING: We are delighted to announce the signing of @siemdejong. More at http://t.co/TCFOp4wgm1. #WelkomSiem #NUFC pic.twitter.com/UcdDfCyBCF
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 1, 2014
The midfielder described the move as a “great opportunity” and admitted that he wanted a change of scene after spending his entire career to date with Ajax.
“It is great to have signed for Newcastle. It is a big club which my brother told me all about, so I already feel good here.
“I had been at Ajax a long time and wanted a new challenge in a new environment and a new country.
“Coming to Newcastle is a great opportunity and the chance to play for a club like this in the Premier League was one I could not turn down.
“I am looking forward to starting training and meeting my new teammates and hopefully we can have a successful season.”
Time for a new step in my life and in my career, #Ajax I will never forget you #THANKYOU @NUFC here I come!
— Siem de Jong (@siemdejong) July 1, 2014
The 25-year-old also tweeted his excitement at the move, while thanking former club Ajax. De Jong made 19 league appearances for Ajax last season, scoring seven goals and creating 13 chances.