Wood joins Newcastle “at crucial time” - Only Ronaldo & Batistuta more expensive in age group

Newcastle have completed the signing of Chris Wood. The 30-year-old centre-forward joins from Burnley and signs a contract for two and a half years. Already next weekend, the new signing is eligible to play in the Premier League, the newly rich Magpies announced.

The relegation-threatened club was looking for immediate help in attack and the new owners were willing to dig deep into their pockets for it. According to media reports, Newcastle have activated the release clause of the striker, who was tied to Burnley until 2023, which is said to be the equivalent of about €30 million.

“I have played at St. James’ Park a few times and it's an amazing place, so to have the chance to represent this club with those incredible supporters behind me and my team-mates is very special,” Wood explained. “I really can’t wait to get onto the pitch and repay the faith they have in me, especially with a vital part of the season ahead of us.”

Owen, Wood & Co. Newcastle's record signings Click here for overview Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said: “Chris is an important signing for us at a crucial time and I'm very pleased we have been able to move quickly and bring him here.” Wood, a New Zealander, featured in the starting eleven in 17 of 20 league matches in 2021/22, scoring three goals. In total, the right-footed forward has been directly involved in 61 goals in 165 appearances for Burnley since he joined in 2017 (arrived from Leeds for €16.4 million). More than €30 million for a centre-forward aged 30 or older has only been paid two times in football history.