Lewis admits to surprise as Newcastle complete £15m left-back capture

Jamal-Lewis-Newcastle-NUFC-Website

New Newcastle left-back Jamal Lewis admitted his transfer from Norwich “was a little bit unexpected” after the finishing touches were made on his switch.

The Northern Ireland international held his own despite Norwich finishing rock bottom of the Premier League last season.

As such, the 22-year-old was heavily tipped to depart in the summer window.

Rumours of a switch to Liverpool were frequently touted, though The Reds ultimately opted to sign Olympiacos full-back Kostas Tsimikas instead.

That left the door ajar for Newcastle, who today completed their move for a fee believed to be around the £15m mark.

Lewis has signed a five-year deal at St. James’ Park, and boss Steve Bruce relayed his hopes that Lewis will be the club’s long-term left-back for a considerable number of years.

“Jamal is a very exciting prospect,” Bruce told Newcastle’s official website. “I watched him flourish in the Championship two years ago and he made a real fist of it in the Premier League last season.

“He is only 22 years old and has a wonderful future ahead of him so I hope he is a Newcastle United full-back for years to come.

 

“It’s been a great week for us with incoming players. We have had to be patient but these players improve us, which is key.”

Lewis, speaking to NUFC TV, added: “It was a little bit unexpected but it was something that I was obviously looking forward to when I heard that there was serious interest, so I’m delighted to be here now.

“Newcastle’s such a great club with such history and I knew it was an opportunity I would love to take with both hands.”

 

Newcastle abandon striker chase

Brewster Liverpool TEAMtalk

Meanwhile, Newcastle United have abandoned their chase for Rhian Brewster after Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp reportedly blocked a loan move for the striker.

Football Insider report that Steve Bruce was eager to pair Brewster with new signing Callum Wilson, but the Tyneside club have been told the young forward is not available.

Numerous enquiries have been made for 20-year-old Brewster, including from Aston Villa. But the report claims Klopp has made his mind up on the forward and decided to keep him at Anfield at least until January.

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