Newcastle United have completed the signing of Yoshinori Muto after he has finally been granted a work permit.
The 26-year-old has signed a four year deal having completed a £9.5 million transfer from Bundesliga club Mainz.
The Japan international becomes Newcastle United’s fifth signing of the summer, joining Martin Dubrvaka, Ki Sung-yueng and Fabian Schar, and the loan capture of Kenedy, at St James’ Park.
“I am very happy to be a player for Newcastle United. I am really looking forward to playing in front of the fans,” Muto told the official Newcastle United website.
“As the first Japanese Newcastle United player, I am honoured to be a player for such a big club. I hope to achieve good results – that is what I am here to do. I would like to perform well and leave my name in Newcastle’s history.”
The forward scored 10 goals in 30 appearances for Mainz las season, and Newcastle boss Rafa Benítez has revealed to the club website that he has been a long-term target:
“I am really pleased to have Yoshinori Muto with us. We were following him for quite a while.
“Hopefully he can bring us his energy and work-rate and help the team to improve and be better for the new season.”