It’s official – Newcastle have now announced the signing of Argentinian international centre-back Federico Fernandez – with the defender arriving from Swansea City for £6m.
The former Napoli man has signed an initial two years deal with the club, arriving to give us some much needed cover in central defence – with Florian Lejeune set to miss the majority of the season after a cruciate knee ligament injury.
Here’s what the 29-year old has had to say when speaking to the club’s official website after signing at St James’ Park today.
“It was a long day but I’m really happy to be here.
“It’s a new challenge in my life and I’m very excited to meet all the players and staff here.”
We're delighted to confirm the signing of defender Federico Fernández from @SwansOfficial!
?? https://t.co/9Q86FYTp9k #NUFC pic.twitter.com/g3xppczQ3g
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) August 9, 2018
Here’s what Rafa Benitez has had to say about the signing, explaining why it was an ‘easy decision’ to sign the defender he worked with during his time at Napoli.
“I know Federico well from our time together at Napoli and it was an easy decision to bring him here.
“He is experienced, a very good professional and he will add competition in defence.”
Fernandez will wear the number 18 shirt, with the club also confirming that he will eligible to face Tottenham at St James’ Park on Saturday.
“EVERY PENNY GENERATED” TIGHT WAD COCKNEY WA#KER!!!!
WE WILL MISS YOU RAFA YOU PERFORMED A MIRACLE WITH THE LACK OF BACKING YOU’VE RECEIVED. GOOD LUCK IN YOUR FUTURE APPOINTMENT YOU DESERVE IT .
Max powers(Quote)