Newcastle release Sunday night statement - January exit confirmed on permanent transfer

Newcastle United have confirmed that Javier Manquillo has joined Celta Vigo on a permanent transfer, ending his six and a half year stint at St James' Park.

The right-back signed for the Magpies from Atletico Madrid in July 2017 and made 110 appearances in all competitions for managers Rafa Benitez, Steve Bruce and Eddie Howe.

A club statement read "The full-back returns to his native Spain following six-and-a-half years at St James' Park, having arrived from Atlético Madrid in July 2017. The 29-year-old will now link up with former boss Rafa Benítez, whose side currently sit 16th in the La Liga table. Newcastle United would like to thank Javier for his service and everybody at the club wishes him well for the future."

The former Spanish Under-21 international also had previous stints at English clubs Liverpool and Sunderland. He scored his only goal for the club in a 4-1 defeat to Manchester United in September 2021.

Manquillo didn't make an appearance for Newcastle this season and only made four substitute appearances in the 2022-23 season, but played a key role in Howe's first few months in the job and rarely let us down when called upon.