MIKE WILLIAMSON has signed an 18-month contract with Wolves after turning down an alternative offer to join Sheffield Wednesday.

Williamson, who was due to become a free agent in the summer, leaves Newcastle for a minimal fee, having made 170 senior appearances for the club since moving to Tyneside in January 2010.

He spent five weeks on loan at Wolves earlier in the season, and replaces Scott Golbourne, who has left Molineux to join Bristol City.

“We are looking forward to Mike being back with us,” said Wolves boss Kenny Jackett. “He made an excellent impact whilst on loan, and brought his considerable experience and leadership to the back four.”

Alex Gilliead has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with Newcastle, with the option of a further year at the end of the deal.

The winger, who is from Consett, has been on loan with League Two Carlisle United this season, scoring three goals.

Newcastle’s home game with Manchester City will have to be rescheduled from its planned date of Sunday, February 28 because it clashes with City’s Capital One Cup final against Liverpool.