Magpies win race for Jonas
02 Jul 2008 - 11:29:00
Newcastle United have made their first move of the summer after signing Argentina winger Jonas Gutierrez from Spanish side Real Mallorca.
Gutierrez, 24, has moved to St James' Park on a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee, with reports suggesting the Magpies have paid up to £9million for a player who was also linked with Portsmouth and Tottenham Hotspur.
The former Velez Sarsfield wideman made 30 appearances as unfashionable Mallorca secured UEFA Cup football by finishing seventh in La Liga last season.
"Jonas is a wonderful signing for us," manager Kevin Keegan told the club's official website.
"I know a lot of other clubs have been interested in him. He'll be a terrific addition to the squad.
"He's an exciting player and I'm sure our fans will enjoy watching him."
Gutierrez, whose exuberant goal celebrations in which he dons a Spiderman mask made him a hit with Mallorca fans, is relishing the prospect of playing in England.
The winger has won two caps for Argentina after making his international debut in 2007.
He added: "I cannot tell you how excited I am to be joining Newcastle United.
"The Premier League is a great place to play and I cannot wait to meet my new team-mates and prove myself to the Newcastle United fans."