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Italian full back Davide Santon has sealed a move to St. James’ Park. The 20-year old, who was earlier contracted to Inter Milan has be signed for a fee believed to be around the £5m mark. A statement on Newcastle’s website read, “Newcastle United have completed the signing of Italian international defender Davide Santon from Inter Milan. The 20-year-old full-back has signed a five-year-deal at St. James' Park for an undisclosed fee, and will wear the number three shirt.”

Manager Alan Pardew was elated with his latest acquisition and was quoted by Newcastle’s website as saying, “We are delighted to bring to Davide to Newcastle. He is a quality left-back and an established international who also gives us flexibility in defence. Davide is a young lad and a great signing for us and I am sure he will adapt to the Premier League very quickly.”

Although a move from Inter to Newcastle may be considered a step down by most, the youngster was surplus to requirements at the San Siro and the move will enable him to secure first team football. Speaking to nufcTV Santon stated, “It's never easy to leave any country, never mind Italy. It was a difficult decision, but I've only been here for a short while and I feel very comfortable. There are some good people here, it's a beautiful place, therefore I am very, very happy. I came here because it has always been my dream to play in the Premier League. And to play for Newcastle is even better, to play for such an historical club and such a great club." He went on to add, “I am really pleased to sign for Newcastle. The chance to play in the Premier League and in front of 50,000 fans at St. James' Park was too good to turn down. This is an ambitious club who want to move forward and I want to help them achieve that."

Santon started his senior career with Inter three years ago after coming through their youth ranks. During his time at the club, he made a total of 40 appearances and showed plenty of promise during his initial years. However, he was deemed surplus to requirements in Inter’s last campaign and spent the latter half of the season on loan at Cesena.

Davide will be expected to go straight into the Magpies starting eleven and will have the tough task of filling the void left behind by the consistent Jose Enrique. However, at just 20 years of age and the reported price tag, Santon can be considered to be a real bargain for Newcastle given the fact that he already has considerable experience under his belt and has even managed to make 7 appearances for the Italian national side. 

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