MATTY LONGSTAFF has signed a new one-year extension to his contract at Newcastle United - and immediately joined Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen on a season-long loan.

The younger of the two Longstaff brothers has moved to Pittodrie after failing to establish himself in Steve Bruce’s first-team squad over the course of the last 12 months.

“It’s happened very quickly over the last couple of days,” said Bruce. “I think we’ve said over the last couple of weeks that it’s important for young Matty to go and play some football. He had a difficult year with one thing and another last year. It’s a great opportunity for him to go and play.”

The 21-year-old had been linked with a possible move to a number of clubs in the Championship, but Bruce claims Aberdeen were the only side to lodge a formal loan offer, hence their ability to lure Longstaff to the Scottish top-flight. The Dons are managed by former Newcastle midfielder Stephen Glass.

“There might have been interest from the Championship, but when it comes down to the offer, Aberdeen put their offer on the table,” said Bruce.

“He’s desperate to go and play football. Aberdeen’s a good place and a nice place to go and play, so good luck to him.”