Newcastle United have completed the signing of Brighton & Hove Albion's towering centre back Dan Burn after agreeing a fee within the region of £12.5m.
After seeing two bids rejected for Burn, Newcastle finally succeeded in their efforts and add a much-needed defensive acquisition to their ranks.
Newcastle have been searching for a left-footed defender to partner captain Jamal Lascelles at the heart of the back-line and had reviewed several options before settling on Burn.
The 29-year-old is approaching the final 18 months of his contract at Brighton, who understand the value of cashing in before his value diminishes.
Sevilla's Diego Carlos and LOSC Lille's Sven Botman were both assessed but deals could not be reached with the respective clubs.
A return home to Tyneside
A boyhood Magpie, Burn grew up in Blyth and had a season ticket at St James' Park, whilst being a part of the club's youth setup.
Whilst it is clear that Burn was not considered first-choice for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, the deal will be considered a successful one regardless.
Burn becomes Newcastle's fifth signing of the window, and with a further addition or two not out of the question.
The bolstering of the squad could prove invaluable in the battle against relegation from the Premier League,, with the club currently languishing in 18th place after 21 matches.
In Burn, Newcastle will gain a solid defender with a knack for robust challenges and firm interceptions.
He keeps passing simple, but does so to great effect, calmly distributing away from the backline and initiating forward sequences.
Burn has excelled across recent months, and has become a key member of a thriving Brighton side in the absence of Lewis Dunk, Shane Duffy and Adam Webster, who have all spent spells on the sidelines thus far.
The move is completed with satisfaction from all parties, and Newcastle will take comfort in a defensive player strengthening an area of concern.