Newcastle sign Nico Gonzalez from Man City | OneFootball

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Nico Gonzalez from Manchester City.

The 24-year-old, who came through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, is Newcastle’s seventh senior signing of the summer

“I’m really happy to be here at this amazing club,” Gonzalez said (via the club’s official website).

“I’ve only heard top words about the club and the city, so I’m really excited to live here and to be part of this project.”

Manager Matthias Jaissle believes the midfielder can bring an important blend of technical quality, physicality and tactical intelligence to his new-look side.

Sporting director Ross Wilson revealed Newcastle identified Gonzalez as their preferred target for the position after weeks of behind-the-scenes work.

“This was the one we wanted,” Wilson said. “He fits the exact criteria we set for this position, and we weren’t prepared to compromise on that.”

The signing also addresses a glaring issue in Newcastle’s midfield following the departures of Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.

That weakness was exposed during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool, when Newcastle started with youngsters Sean Steur and Lewis Miley in central midfield.

Gonzalez offers something different.

Per Squawka, he averaged more than 75 passes per game last season with a 90.36 percent completion rate. His ability to carry the ball and play progressive passes should give Jaissle greater control.

He also brings defensive bite, averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game last term.

Gonzalez may not replicate the goals, assists or creativity of Tonali and Guimaraes, but Newcastle do not necessarily need him to.

His versatility, composure and experience can provide the balance Jaissle’s midfield is crying out for.

The Magpies still need one or two more marquee midfield additions before the transfer window closes.