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Matt Ritchie signs for Newcastle United from Bournemouth

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Matt Ritchie from Bournemouth for an undisclosed fee.

Ritchie, 26, has agreed a five-year contract at Championship club Newcastle and his arrival follows Dwight Gayle's from Crystal Palace.

He scored four goals and assisted six in 37 appearances as Bournemouth avoided Premier League relegation.

Newcastle have also sold winger Andros Townsend to Crystal Palace as the club plan for life in England's second tier.

"It's an unbelievable feeling to come to a football club like this," Ritchie said on his new club's official website.

"I loved it at Bournemouth -- I had a fantastic time there and it had a huge impact on my career. But when a club like Newcastle comes calling, I couldn't pass up this opportunity.

"It's fantastic to be here and I'm really looking forward to the challenge of getting the Club back in the Premier League."

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez said: "We have been following some wingers for a while and Matt was one of the best prospects for this team.

"He has great ability and pace, and as soon as we knew that Andros Townsend could be leaving, our priority was to finalise this deal.

"We have signed an exciting winger who has experience in the Championship but has also proved that he can step up to the top level. I am delighted that he is now part of our squad."