NEWCASTLE United have completed the signing of Vurnon Anita from Ajax.

The 23-year-old Holland international, who can play as a defensive midfielder or at left-back, has signed a five-year deal at St James' Park.

He has moved for undisclosed fee, which is believed to be around £6.2m, and will wear the Magpies' number eight shirt.

Anita progressed through Ajax's renowed youth system, and will go straight into Newcastle's squad for Saturday's opening game of the season against Tottenham.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew said: "We are delighted to secure the services of Vurnon. He is an exceptionally talented footballer with great technical ability, which is exactly what I'm looking at in a player. And at 23 years old, we hope his best years are at Newcastle.

"He has come through the Ajax youth system which is world renowned for bringing up players the right way, and I am sure he will fit seamlessly into the squad of players we have here.

"Vurnon has done his pre-season and indeed already played one competitive game, so he's up to speed and ready to play when I need him."