‘Deal is done’ - President confirms spectacular move for £5m Newcastle United signing

Former Newcastle United striker Joselu has completed a spectacular return to Real Madrid, president Florentino Perez has confirmed.

The Spaniard endured a difficult time on Tyneside after joining the Magpies in a £5million deal from Stoke City during the first week of the 2017-18 season.

After making his debut in a 1-0 defeat at Huddersfield Town, Joselu grabbed his first goal for the club in a 3-0 win against West Ham United before the end of his first month at St James Park.

However, inconsistent form and playing in a United side that created few chances meant scored just seven goals in 52 appearances prior to his departure to Alaves in a £2.5m deal during the summer of 2019.

A return to Spanish football brought a change in fortunes as the striker scored 36 goals and provided 11 assists across the following two seasons before swapping life at the Mendizorrotza Stadium for La Liga rivals Espanyol last summer.

Although Espanyol were relegated from Spain’s top-flight in 22-23, only Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski and Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema netted more than Joselu’s 16.

Benzema left Madrid last week to join Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad and Joselu will replace the Frenchman.

As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Perez has confirmed Joselu has signed on loan for the 2023-24 season, which includes an option to buy, and will be unveiled next week when he returns from international duty with Spain.

Joselu previously played for the 14-time Champions League winners between 2009 and 2012. He scored on his two senior appearances whilst netting 40 goals in 73 appearances for Real’s B-team.