Ramsey was confirmed as the Magpies’ fourth senior signing of the summer less than 24 hours after his former club, Aston Villa, played out a goalless draw with his new employers at Villa Park.
Newcastle have paid an initial fee of £39m for the former England Under-21 international, with a further £4m of potential add-ons included in the agreement.
Ramsey’s arrival strengthens a Magpies midfield unit that has lost Sean Longstaff, who joined Leeds United, since the end of last season.
“Jacob is another fantastic addition to our squad,” said Howe, who has been playing an increasingly prominent role in Newcastle’s recruitment team following the departure of former sporting director Paul Mitchell.
“His qualities will bring us something different on the pitch and he fits the profile of being young and hungry to develop, but with a wealth of Premier League football under his belt.
“Jacob offers versatility and his directness in attack has proven to be a real threat at this level in recent seasons. He performed very well in the Champions League last season too and we believe he’ll be a major asset for us.”
Birmingham-born Ramsey progressed through the youth set-up at Villa Park and made his senior Villa debut in 2019. He made a total of 167 senior appearances for Villa, scoring 17 goals, with ten of those outings coming in last season’s Champions League.
He played alongside Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon in the England side that triumphed at 2023’s European Under-21s Championships, and could make his Magpies debut in next Monday’s home game with Liverpool.
“I’m delighted to be here,” said Ramsey, who will wear Newcastle’s number 41 shirt. “It’s been a mad two or three days, but I’m really happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started.
“This is a big move for me, but as soon as I knew the gaffer was interested and really liked me, it didn’t take much time to decide. His track record of developing players, especially those who have gone on to become internationals here, speaks for itself.
“It was always a tough game playing for Villa against Newcastle – the team is full of energy, so athletic and the fans are so passionate. I feel my game will suit that and I’m excited to be on the other end of it now.”
