Newcastle sign defender Federico Fernandez

Newcastle United and Swansea City have agreed terms on a transfer deal to allow Federico Fernandez to remain in the Premier League for the 2018/19 season. The centre-back has decided to make a move to St James' Park having agreed a £ 3 million transfer deal with the Magpies.

Fernandez, who played over 100 games for the Welsh club, has decided to make a move north to Newcastle as opposed to a return to Italy, where he had previously played for Serie A giants Napoli for three seasons. The 29-year-old Argentinian international, who retired from international football recently, has put pen to paper on a four year contract at St James' Park.

It is understood that Watford as well as Italian side Sampdoria were in the race for Fernandez, but Newcastle were the defender's preferred destination having had a conversation with the club's manager Rafa Benitez prior to making the transfer move.

Fernandez will earn a reported £60,000 per week as per the terms of his new contract.