Kieran Tripper has become the first signing of the Eddie Howe era after completing his move from Atletico Madrid.

The 31-year-old full-back has moved back to the Premier League for an undisclosed fee, understood to be in the region of £12million plus add-ons.

The former Tottenham defender has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract and his arrival signals the launch of a new era under the Magpies’ Saudi-backed owners.

A club statement said: “Newcastle United are delighted to confirm the signing of England full-back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid for an undisclosed fee.

“The 31-year-old has agreed terms on a two-and-a-half-year deal and becomes the first senior signing under the club’s owners and head coach Eddie Howe.”

Social media reaction to Tripper's signing has been quite mixed initially.

How did social media react to Kieran Tripper's signing?

Reaction was varied, but there was a fair amout of happiness expressed at his signing.

Alan Stewart wrote on Twitter: "Congratulations Kieran. First in. Hopefully your impact on the Club will be revered in the future alongside Kilcline, Keegan and Shearer.

Another user wrote: "Welcome @trippier2 All we ask is or you to give your best, which we know you will.

Mike Smith seem to be quite pleased, posting: "Welcome To The Toon @trippier2  Fantastic News!!!! Howe Way The Lads!!!"

Generally Tripper was welcomed to the club, with another writing: "Welcome the Toon Kieran, just the type of player we need to start this great journey."

Not everyone was so kind though, with some saying he'd only moved for the money and others being annoyed he wasn't pointing to the Newcastle badge in his announcement image, but at the shirt sleeve sponsor instead.

One wrote: "Why is he not pointing at badge, come on. Happy with the signing tho."

Others were less compliementary on the money aspect with one saying "Enjoy your payday" whilst someone else wrote "So you just decided to relegate?"

Another wrote: "He wouldn't be signing for any other big club in England, lol, he has just become the highest paid player in the premier league outside the 'big 6' at a club threatened with relegation."