Newcastle United issue 49-word statement confirming permanent winger deal

Fraser spent last season on loan at the Saints after he fell out with head coach Eddie Howe midway through the 2022-23 campaign. The 30-year-old made 44 appearances and scored eight times to help secure an immediate return to the Premier League

Since then, the former Scotland international has made no secret of his desire to return to St Mary’s, however, his Newcastle salary on a contract with 12 months left to run was a stumbling block.

But on deadline day, both Fraser and the Magpies have come to an agreement, allowing him to re-join Russell Martin’s side three games into the new season.

“Newcastle United can confirm that winger Ryan Fraser has departed the club and joined Southampton on a permanent deal,” a United statement read.

“Fraser, who spent last season on loan at St Mary's, made 59 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies following his arrival from AFC Bournemouth in the summer of 2020.”

On returning to Southampton, Fraser said: "I'm probably the happiest man in Southampton at the minute. It's been a long summer from the play-off final to now, but my number one goal was to get back here and now that it's happened, it's one of my proudest moments to be honest. Probably second after winning the play-offs. So yeah, it's really nice to be here.

"I think the journey that the players and the fans went through last season, we came together and it's amazing to be back."

Meanwhile, Martin added: Wee Man played such an important part in our squad last season, both on the pitch and in the dressing room, and all of us are delighted to have him back.

“Everyone could see the quality and creativity he has and he delivered in so many big moments for us. What many people outside of the building won’t have seen is the impact he also had off the pitch within the group, and it’s fantastic for us to be able to keep someone not only with great ability, but the same level of character too.

“His experience in the Premier League is an additional asset, and he’s delivered at that level consistently over the time he’s played there, so it’s another really positive signing for us.”