Newcastle confirm signing of Ki Sung-yueng on a free transfer after passing medical
South Korea international is out of contract at the Swans at the end of this month and is will now join the Magpies
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NEWCASTLE have confirmed the signing of former Swansea midfielder Ki Sung-yueng on a free transfer after passing his medical today.
The South Korea international, 29, is Rafa Benitez's second signing of the summer - after No1 Martin Dubravka.
Ki left Swansea in May to head out to Russia for the World Cup, with his contract expiring at the end of this month.
On the signing, Benitez revealed: "I’m pleased to welcome Ki to the club.
"He is a player with lots of Premier League and international experience and it was an easy decision to bring him here.
"He is the captain of his country, a good character and he will be a good addition to the squad."
Meanwhile, Ki himself added: "I’m so pleased I can join the club.
"I was always pleasantly surprised when I came to St James’ Park to play against Newcastle – there is a great atmosphere and the passion from the fans is a great support to the players.
"Everyone knows how big this club is so I’m really looking forward to playing with my teammates and for the fans."
Everton were one other Premier League side interested in landing the South Korean following the Welsh side's relegation to the Championship.
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However, Newcastle won the race for Ki after agreeing on personal terms.
Ki had been at the Liberty Stadium since 2012, going on to make 160 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 times.
He spent one season on loan at Sunderland in 2013-14, having originally joined Swansea from Celtic for a £6million fee.
Following Swansea's relegation, Ki claimed: “I’m really frustrated and disappointed.
“I believe Swansea will come back stronger and find the philosophy of the club for the fans.”
Ki played twice at this summer's World Cup - against Sweden and Mexico - as South Korea failed to make it out of their group.