Newcastle United sign teenage midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax for up to £23m

Newcastle United have signed teenage midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax in a deal worth up to £23m.

The 18-year-old landed on Tyneside on Wednesday evening before undergoing a medical and finalising his move.

He has signed a five-year contract until 2031.

"It's an incredible feeling to be here," Steur said. "It's a giant club in the Premier League and it was always my dream to play in the best league in the world.

"I was at home at Ajax – I joined when I was seven and I leave with only good memories - but when a club like Newcastle comes for you, it's really hard to say no."

Steur established himself as a regular at Ajax in the second half of last season, starting in the De Klassieker win against Feyenoord at the age of just 17.

According to Opta, of those midfielders who were aged 18 or younger in the Eredivisie at the start of the campaign, Steur ranked first for chances created (15), total carries (231) and duel success (56.8%).

He was second for passes (623), passing accuracy (89.7%), tackles (20), possession won (49) and duels won (46).

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said Steur was a "top young prospect".

"We see real potential in Sean and believe he has the characteristics to become a valuable player for us for years to come," he added.

"Sean is an exciting addition to our squad. He's had an excellent upbringing at Ajax, who have an outstanding track record of producing young players."