Ayoze Perez signs new five-and-a-half-year deal at Newcastle United

Newcastle United have announced that Ayoze Perez has penned a new five-and-a-half-year contract at St James' Park.

The 22-year-old, who joined the Magpies from Tenerife in the summer of 2014, has committed his future to the Magpies, who reside two points off Premier League safety.

Perez has scored five goals this season, pushing his overall tally to 12 in 63 appearances in all competitions.

"It's a special day for me, a big day for me," Perez told the club's official website. "The truth is I'm really happy here, so it's a good thing for me, and I hope it's the same for the Geordie family. Newcastle gave me everything and I'm really pleased to sign this new contract."

Head coach Steve McClaren added: "I am delighted that Ayoze has signed a new deal. He is a very good player with huge potential and someone we believe has a very big future at Newcastle United.

"We are building this club for the long-term and Ayoze is a very important part of that."

Earlier today, Newcastle confirmed the arrival of Seydou Doumbia from Roma on loan until the end of the season.