Newcastle United have confirmed the club-record signing of Real Sociedad forward Alexander Isak.
Earlier this week, it was widely claimed that Eddie Howe's squad were expected to be boosted by the arrival of the Sweden international.
Howe remained coy about a deal being completed when quizzed on the matter after the full-time whistle of Wednesday's EFL Cup tie with Tranmere Rovers.
On Friday morning, however, it was a different matter as Howe acknowledged that Newcastle were on the brink of finalising a transfer.
The North-East outfit have now formally announced that Isak has arrived at St James' Park on a long-term contract.
HERE. WE. GO. 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/FTdo8vQfW4
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) August 26, 2022
While the Magpies say that they have purchased the 22-year-old an undisclosed fee, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that the Premier League outfit have committed to paying €65m (£55.1m) with a further €5m (£4.2m) coming in add-ons.
Speaking to the club's website, Isak said: "I'm delighted to have it done. It was a big, big decision for me but it is a decision I am really happy with.
"It is a great, historical club that I think anyone would like to play for, with amazing fans. They were a big part of why I came here - and also the club's project, which is one that I really believe in.
"You always want to go into a team and know how they play. I think Newcastle play very attractive football and I want to be a part of that."
© Reuters
Isak becomes Newcastle's fourth signing of the summer transfer window following deals for Nick Pope, Sven Botman and Matt Targett.
Since 2019, Isak has been representing Sociedad in La Liga, the player contributing a total of 33 goals and five assists from 105 appearances in Spain's top flight.
The former Borussia Dortmund man has turned down the opportunity to play Europa League football this season in order to move to Tyneside.
Isak will now challenge Callum Wilson, who is sidelined for two weeks with a hamstring injury, and Chris Wood for a place in Howe's attack.
As it stands, it remains unclear whether Isak was registered in time to feature in the squad for Sunday's meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Darren Plant
