Atsu agrees 4-yr deal with Newcastle United

The Ghana international has agreed on a four-year contract with the Magpies, who are in talks over a fee with Chelsea

Ghana midfielder Christian Atsu has agreed to join Premier League returnees Newcastle United on a permanent deal from champions Chelsea, according to Sky Sports.

The 25-year-old, who joined the North East club in a one-year loan deal last season, made 32 appearances including 15 starts, scoring five goals and providing three assists as the Magpies won the Championship.

Atsu reportedly accepted a four-year contract after Newcastle opted to strike a clause in his loan deal from Chelsea which will cost the Magpies around £6.5 million as coach Rafael Benitez hopes to strengthen his side ahead of the new season.

Atsu joined Chelsea from FC Porto in 2013 but failed to make a first-team appearance, leading to loan spells at Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, Bournemouth and Malaga.

Goal understands that Newcastle are also tracking Manchester City's Aaron Mooy as well as Florian Thauvin while Tom Headman is likely to be given a new deal.