Bruce excited at ‘wonderful’ duo as Fraser joins Wilson at Newcastle

Newcastle have announced the signing of former Bournemouth winger Ryan Fraser, who has followed fellow ex-Cherry Callum Wilson to St James’ Park.

Fraser left Bournemouth at the end of June and so did not play a part in the club’s unsuccessful fight against relegation.

The Scotland international, whose move brings him closer to family, said: “I’m absolutely buzzing for it – I came down to see the place the other day and it was just a no-brainer, really, to play in such a big stadium with such passionate fans, and being back up in the north again is big as well.”

He added: “So I’m really looking forward to it and I just can’t wait to show everyone what I can do, help the team and help us get back to where we belong.”

Head coach Steve Bruce said: “I’m delighted to bring Ryan to Newcastle United. We have held off big competition to get his signature.

“His ability and his contributions on the pitch speak for themselves. He has wonderful chemistry on the pitch with Callum Wilson, which excites me, and I hope it excites our supporters ahead of the new season.”

Fraser moved to Bournemouth in 2013, making 208 appearances for the Cherries. His best Premier League season came in the 2018/19 campaign, when his 14 assists put him second behind Eden Hazard in the rankings.

WILSON EXCITED ABOUT NEWCASTLE MOVE

Wilson, meanwhile, has said he is relishing the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of some of Newcastle’s biggest names. He said: “From the minute I knew that Newcastle were interested, it was definitely something that appealed to me.

“It’s a massive club with great history. Along the years, they’ve had great strikers so if I can emulate half of what they’ve done, I’d like to attempt that.

“I believe in my ability as a player. As a striker I think it’s important to set yourself goals long term and short term, and I’m hoping to achieve them.

“With the players around me, I believe we can get the goals we need as team and I want to help contribute to that.”

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