Steve Bruce says he's hoping to hand Joe Willock his debut against West Ham United on Sunday.
The player has arrived on Tyneside and is set to complete a £25million move and pen a six-year contract at St James' Park.
When asked about finally getting his man, Bruce said: "I knew Mikel Arteta would want to look at him in pre-season so we knew we'd have to be patient.
"We explored the loan option, but when that couldn't happen we knew we had to buy him.
"Which is fantastic so fair play. We have had to be patient.
"To be fair to my bosses they always said if Joe became available we'd try to buy him.
"Where else would you sign a 21-year-old who scored seven goals on the trot."
And speaking about Willock's fitness, Bruce said: "We want to see where he is and where he's up to.
"It's been a hectic few days.
"We have to get him registered by 12pm and we hope we can play him against West Ham.
"Let's not forget we have him for six years now which is great."
Bruce did not rule out further deals but admits the club have spent more than he expected.
Bruce added: "It's fair to say we have gone above and beyond where I thought we could.
"Never say never. We have 25 players in the squad. Possibly (loans).
"But I knew it would be difficult for a lot of clubs, we had to be patient.
"There's one or two things bubbling away we will see what happens."
