Joelinton signs new long-term Newcastle United contract

The 27-year-old has become a fans' favourites since joining the Magpies from Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim for a then club-record £40m in the summer of 2019.

Joelinton initially arrived at St James' Park as a striker and had limited success in front of goal, but he has since transformed into an all-round midfielder under the tutelage of manager Eddie Howe.

The Brazil international, who earned his first cap in June last year, has made a total of 179 appearances for Newcastle across all competitions, scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists.

Joelinton was a key cog in the Magpies machine that secured a top-four finish in the Premier League and qualified for the Champions League last season, as well as reached the EFL Cup final, chipping in with eight goals in 40 games.

This term, Joelinton has contributed with three goals and four assists in 23 appearances, but he has been sidelined with a thigh injury, which required surgery, since January and is facing a race against time to return before the season comes to a close.

Joelinton: 'I love playing for Newcastle'

Earlier this year, there had been suggestions that Newcastle would look to sell Joelinton this summer if they were unable to reach agreement over a new contract for the midfielder.

Joelinton's initial deal had just 18 months left to run, but the Magpies have now confirmed that the Brazilian has put pen to paper on a new long-term contract, with the length of his deal yet to be disclosed.

Speaking to Newcastle's official website after signing his new deal, Joelinton said: "I feel great. I feel very happy and my family is happy. A lot of things have happened in my years here.

"I've learnt a lot and grown a lot, and for me to come here to Newcastle was the best decision of my career.

"I love playing for the club. I love the club, I love the fans. We had a lot of discussions and I always wanted to be here. I'm glad to continue and I hope to have success in the years to come."

Howe added: "This has been a big priority for us off the pitch and I'm absolutely delighted Joelinton has committed his future to the club.

"Joey is an exceptional player and person, and the love he has for the club is reciprocated by all of us here. He brings unique qualities to the group and undoubtedly makes us stronger.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved behind the scenes for bringing this to a swift and positive conclusion. We are all excited to see Joelinton in a Newcastle shirt for many years to come."

Joelinton is believed to be targeting a return from injury at some stage in May when Newcastle have five remaining Premier League fixtures.

The Magpies currently sit eighth in the Premier League table and just one point behind seventh-placed West Ham United, who have played a game more.