Newcastle fend off Man United and Spurs interest in Ayoze Perez by handing star new contract

The 22-year-old, who has been linked with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur this transfer window, has put pen-to-paper on a new five-and-a-half-year deal.

Perez arrived on Tyneside in June 2014 from his hometown team Tenerife, and has scored 12 goals in 63 appearances in all competitions – five of which have come this season.

“It’s a special day for me, a big day for me,” said the Spanish under-21 international.

“The truth is I’m really happy here, so it’s a good thing for me – and I hope it’s the same for the Geordie family.

“Newcastle gave me everything and I’m really pleased to sign this new contract.”

Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren added: “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.”