Newcastle lure Anita from Ajax

Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Ajax midfielder Vurnon Anita for a fee of 8.5 million euros.

The Netherlands international operates primarily as a central midfielder but can also fill in at full-back and has signed a five-year contract at St James’ Park.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew expressed his delight at the completion of the deal and said he is looking forward to the player blossoming in the northeast of England.

“We are delighted to secure the services of Vurnon,” Pardew told the club’s official website.

“He is an exceptionally talented footballer with great technical ability, which is exactly what I’m looking at in a player. And, at 23-years-old, we hope his best years are at Newcastle.”

Anita played a key role in Ajax’s Eredivisie title-winning campaign last season, scoring two goals in 17 matches.

Pardew revealed he will be ready for the season opener against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday as he has already completed a full pre-season.

“He has come through the Ajax youth system which is world renowned for bringing up players the right way, and I am sure he will fit seamlessly into the squad of players we have here,” he said.

“Vurnon has done his pre-season, and indeed already played one competitive game, so he’s up to speed and ready to play when I need him.”

During his time in Amsterdam, Anita won both the Eredivisie title and the Dutch Super Cup twice, as well as lifting the Dutch Cup on three occasions, and is now ready for a new challenge.

“I won almost everything in Holland so the step was not difficult to make,” Anita said upon his arrival on Tyneside.

“Now I think we can also win trophies with Newcastle and it’s time to do that.

“In the Premier League especially, every game is tough so it can help me also to grow in my football skills.”

Anita also said he had spoken with Pardew about the role he hoped to play in the team.

“I talked to the manager and the coach and they know that I want to play in a defensive midfield place and that’s why they brought me here,” he said.

“But I can play at left-back or right-back, so that’s also no problem.”