Newcastle United have completed the signing of midfielder Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa in a deal worth up to £43 million.

The Magpies will pay an initial £39m plus £4m in add-ons for the 24-year-old, who has signed a five-year contract at St James’ Park.

Ramsey becomes Newcastle’s fourth permanent signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Anthony Elanga, Aaron Ramsdale, and Malick Thiaw, in what has been a challenging transfer window for the club.

Ramsey, an attacking midfielder and England U21 international, leaves boyhood club Aston Villa after making 167 appearances and scoring 17 goals across all competitions since his senior debut in 2020.

His sale represents pure profit for Villa as they look to ease Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns.

Speaking on his move, Ramsey expressed excitement about the next chapter of his career.

“I’m delighted to be here. It’s been a mad two or three days, but I’m really happy to be here, and I can’t wait to get started. As soon as I knew the gaffer was interested, it didn’t take much time to decide. His track record of developing players, especially internationals, speaks for itself.”

Ramsey also hailed Newcastle’s energy and passionate supporters, admitting he had always found them tough opponents while playing for Villa.

“I feel my game will suit that, and I’m excited to be on the other end of it now.”

Newcastle, who began their Premier League campaign with a goalless draw against Villa despite the home side going down to 10 men, will next face Liverpool on August 25.

The signing takes Newcastle’s summer spending to over £130m, as manager Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his squad amid uncertainty over the future of star striker Alexander Isak.