Newcastle United have completed the signing of Joelinton from 1899 Hoffenheim for a club record £40 million.
The 22-year-old has signed a six-year contract at St James’ Park, keeping him at the Magpies until 30 June 2025. He will wear the number nine shirt. He is a former Brazilian Under-17 international but has not played for his country at any other age group.
Joelinton becomes Steve Bruce’s first signing since the former Sheffield Wednesday manager replaced Rafa Benitez earlier this month.
Following Benitez’s departure and the appointment of Bruce, Newcastle have become many punters’ favourites for relegation this season. The club no longer have last season’s two top goalscorers; Salomon Rondon and Ayoze Perez, whilst Joselu has also returned to Spain. So there will be a lot of pressure on the new signing’s young shoulders.
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The Brazilian striker scored 11 goals in 35 games for Hoffenheim last season, though only seven of those came in the Bundesliga.
He’s a player that likes to link up with the rest of the attack and bring teammates into play – somewhat similar to former Hoffenheim striker Roberto Firmino, who’s having great success with Liverpool currently.
Joelinton started his career in his homeland with Sport Recife before moving to Hoffenheim in 2015. He was sent out on loan for two seasons with Austrian side Rapid Vienna, before playing his first full German Bundesliga campaign this past season.
The £40 million transfer fee doubles Newcastle United’s previous record which was set in January this year when they bought Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron from Atlanta United.
Newcastle’s latest signing told the club’s official website that he is excited to wear the number nine shirt:
“I’m really happy to be here.
I know it is a huge responsibility, the great Alan Shearer, the team’s biggest idol [wore it]. I know it is a big responsibility, but I am prepared.
“I know it is a large investment that the club has made in me, and that comes with a huge responsibility.
“I know that everybody at the club has faith in me having brought me here. I hope to contribute on the pitch. I am happy and prepared.
“Rest assured there will be no shortage of desire and dedication to score lots of goals and honour the number nine shirt.”
Newcastle United kick off their 2019-20 Premier League campaign at home to Arsenal on Sunday 11 August.
Steve Bruce is expected to bring in more players before the end of the summer transfer window in less than three weeks’ time. The club may also have a battle on their hands to keep hold of 21-year-old Sean Longstaff who is being sought after by Manchester United currently.
