Newcastle have signed Ajax teenager Sean Steur for a fee that could rise to £23million.
The midfielder made 24 appearances in all competitions for the Amsterdammers last season after joining the club’s academy in 2016.
Steur, 18, becomes Newcastle’s third arrival of the summer, following goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen and winger Bazoumana Traore through the door at St James’ Park.
The Netherlands Under-19 international told the club’s official website: “It’s an incredible feeling to be here. It’s a giant club in the Premier League and it was always my dream to play in the best league in the world, so this is really exciting.
“I was at home at Ajax – I joined when I was seven and I leave with only good memories, but when a club like Newcastle comes for you, it’s really hard to say no. The last few days have gone fast and I’m very happy to join.
“I’m a player who likes to get on the ball and play forward all the time. I’m happy playing between the lines and I feel I have a lot of energy in my game. I just want to win.”
Newcastle boss Howe pleased with Steur after difficult summer so far
The signing of Steur has provided a little respite for boss Eddie Howe, who has already lost Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali this summer with captain Bruno Guimaraes also eager to quit Newcastle for Arsenal.
Howe said of the young Dutchman: “We’re delighted to welcome Sean to Newcastle United – he’s a top young prospect that has already tasted Champions League and top-flight Dutch football.
“We see real potential in Sean and believe he has the characteristics to become a valuable player for us for years to come. That’s something we’re really excited by and look forward to working with him and helping him achieve his ambitions.
“Sean is an exciting addition to our squad. He’s had an excellent upbringing at Ajax, who have an outstanding track record of producing young players.”
Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League last season and appear to have reshaped their transfer model, preferring instead to target young players with sell-on value rather than ready-made Premier League players.
