Ayoze Perez's emotional message to Newcastle fans

The forward today signed a new five-and-a-half-year deal which will keep him at St James's until the summer of 2021.

And Perez posted a message to supporters on Twitter.

"Today, I've signed my new contract," said the 22-year-old. "I will be in Newcastle until 2021, and I'm very happy.

"Since my arrival here one and a half years ago, I only have good words about the city, the club and, of course, the fans.

"When I came to Newcastle people told me that the fans here were amazing. It was true. They are much more than amazing.

"Thanks to all the people in the club and in the city. Newcastle United is my home and the Toon Army my family.

"I just can say that I will give everything for this team and the fans."

Head coach Steve McClaren had insisted earlier this month that Perez, signed from Tenerife in the summer of 2014 as an unknown, would not leave the relegation-threatened club in this month's transfer window.

McClaren said: "I am delighted that Ayoze has signed a new deal.

"He is a very good player with huge potential, and someone we believe has a very big future at Newcastle United.

"We are building this club for the long-term and Ayoze is a very important part of that."