Newcastle United have completed the signing of Bosnian international full-back Amar Dedić from Benfica for around £30m.
The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract at St James’ Park and becomes the sixth addition to Matthias Jaissle’s squad this summer.
Dedić already has a strong connection with Jaissle, having worked with the Newcastle head coach during the early stages of his career in Austria at both FC Liefering and Red Bull Salzburg.
The defender is delighted to reunite with Jaissle and begin his Premier League career on Tyneside.
“It’s a special feeling and a really big honour for me to join Newcastle United,” Dedić said.
“I’m really happy to be here and can’t wait to start playing for the club and the amazing fans.
“Working with Matthias again was a big factor for me. We know each other well, he knows what I can bring on the pitch and I’m really happy to be playing for him again.
“Playing Premier League football at St. James’ Park is going to be really special. Every game feels like a big occasion, with an amazing atmosphere. I’m really excited to get started.”
Jaissle believes Dedić will make a big difference to his Newcastle side.
“I’m really happy to add Amar to our squad,” he said.
“He’s a player who I know really well, having worked with him from a young age in Austria and followed his career since.
“He will bring both defensive and attacking qualities to our squad, which suits the style of football that we want to play.
“He’s athletic, aggressive and technically very good, but also has a lot of potential to develop further.”