'Best decision of my career': Joelinton speaks up after signing four-year extension at Newcastle United

It's finally happened, Joelinton has signed on the dotted line and committed his future to Newcastle United.

The 27-year-old looked at one point to be heading for the St James' Park exit door when talks broke down earlier this year. Combined with his season-ending injury, it was feared that we'd seen the last of our Brazilian Beast with the most prudent course of action being to sell him in the summer rather than lose him on a free next year.

Thankfully, Amanda Staveley and Darren Eales took over the negotiations and soon a deal was thrashed out. Another feather in the cap for Dan Ashworth, eh?

Rumours started going around earlier this week that Joelinton had verbally agreed to an extension, and Thursday brought confirmation that he has now signed on for what's believed to be four more years.

Joelinton says he never wanted to leave Newcastle

The club also put out a video with an interview with J7 after he signed a new deal where the player admitted that moving to Newcastle was the best decision of his career.

"I feel great. I feel very happy and my family is happy. A lot of things have happened in my years here. I've learnt a lot and grown a lot, and for me to come here to Newcastle was the best decision of my career.

"I love playing for the club. I love the club, I love the fans. We had a lot of discussions and I always wanted to be here. I'm glad to continue and I hope to have success in the years to come."

This could have a huge positive effect at the club

This is a massive coup for the club to get Joelinton to say at St James' Park, especially given the fans' adoration of him and his influence in the dressing room. Losing him could have really upset the mood in and around the club.

We feel it's even more likely now that Bruno Guimaraes will stick around next season, which might have been less likely had Joelinton left.

Eddie Howe also released a brief statement outlining Joelinton's importance.

"This has been a big priority for us off the pitch and I'm absolutely delighted Joelinton has committed his future to the club.

"Joey is an exceptional player and person, and the love he has for the club is reciprocated by all of us here. He brings unique qualities to the group and undoubtedly makes us stronger.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved behind the scenes for bringing this to a swift and positive conclusion. We are all excited to see Joelinton in a Newcastle shirt for many years to come."