Kieran Trippier has admitted he swapped Atletico Madrid for Newcastle for 'personal reasons'.
Trippier, 31, was unveiled as Newcastle's first signing since the Saudi-led takeover of the club on Thursday morning.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted to sign Trippier for Manchester United this summer, but an agreement on a transfer fee couldn't be reached with Atletico and he remained in Spain until this month. Trippier is Bury born and was keen on a move to United to return his young family back to England.
Trippier joins Newcastle from Atletico on a two and a half year deal for an undisclosed fee, believed to be £12m plus add-ons.
He revealed his 'delight' to sign for Newcastle in his first interview for the club, who are currently in the relegation zone.
"I'm delighted to be joining this fantastic club," Trippier told Newcastle's in-house media.
"I really enjoyed my time in Madrid, but when I became aware of interest from Newcastle United, and having worked with Eddie Howe before, I knew this was where I wanted to be.
"I'm aware there is a lot of work ahead of us but I know the demands of Premier League well and I know what an amazing club this is with very talented players.I can't wait to get started and I'm excited to step out at St. James' Park as a Newcastle player.
"I spoke to Atletico about January if anything became available in January, and Newcastle became available. I have personal reasons with my family and it was most important that they were happy and settled with the decision.
"I knew the players and staff and it made it easy for me."
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