'Can't wait' - 30-year-old issues statement after Newcastle United free transfer contract decision

The 30-year-old winger spent last season on loan at Southampton, who were keen to make the move permanent after he helped the club earn promotion back to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs. But with Fraser still having one year left on a lucrative contract at St James’ Park, The Saints were unable to quickly agree a deal due to the finances involved.

But on deadline day, Newcastle agreed an early release for Fraser, allowing him to join Southampton on a free transfer.

After signing a two-year deal at St Mary’s, Fraser took to social media to post pictures of himself re-signing for Southampton along with the caption: “What a feeling to be back home with all of you! Can’t wait to be back in the shirt, see you all at St Mary’s in a couple weeks time.”

The move officially brings Fraser’s tumultuous four year spell at Newcastle to an end. After an initially difficult start under Steve Bruce, Fraser was given a new lease of life at Newcastle under his former AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe.

The winger played an important role in helping Newcastle stay in the Premier League during the 2021-22 season with crucial contributions in the wins over Everton, Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion before a hamstring injury effectively cut his season short.

Fraser’s game time was limited the following campaign and he was eventually made to train with Newcastle’s Under-21s side after growing frustrated with his lack of first-team opportunities. His final appearance for the club came off the bench in a 1-0 win over Everton at St James’ Park in October 2022.

Now he joins a Southampton side who have endured a difficult start to life back in the Premier League, losing each of their opening three matches including against Newcastle at the start of the season. Fraser will have the opportunity to make his second Southampton debut at home to Manchester United following the September international break.