Emre: Move Finally Complete - Undisclosed Fee
By TYne-Talk
July 23 2008
Newcastle United have finalised the sale of midfielder Emre Belozoglu for an undisclosed fee. The Turkish International was linked with a move at the beginning of the summer break, but whilst Fenerbahce confirmed they had signed him, the sale appeared to go no further. Today Fenerbahce have announced the transfer is complete and that Emre is no longer a Newcastle player.
Emre who has been at Newcastle for the past 3 years has signed a 4 year deal with the Turkish club ahead of their Champions League campaign which starts next week. The move failed to be completed in June when initial terms were agreed, due to Emre's lack of military duty, he is reported to have now completed 21 days compulsory military service meaning the transfer could go ahead.
Emre said of the move at today's press conference:
"I have been playing in Europe for so many years, and now it is time for me to come back to my country to lead Fenerbahce to greater victories.
I'm so happy to be here right now. While playing for Newcastle, Fenerbahce also wanted to sign me, but it was not the right time for me to leave Europe.
Today, I feel I am in the right place at the right time. My family also wanted me to come back to my country.
Fenerbahce's Skr Saracoglu Stadium is the most beautiful stadium in Turkey. It's really unique, and I'm sure I will enjoy every moment that I'll spend here.
I'm new here, but my team-mates have been great to me and we have a brilliant set of fans. I want to end my career in this great club."
The 27 year old who began his career at Turkish side Galatasaray, but also spent time at Inter Milan and was signed from there to Newcastle for £3.8million in 2005, is keen to prove his worth after an injury stricken few years in the Premier League.
He added:
"First of all, I'm very thankful to our president and to our directors for making me feel so welcome since I arrived.
From now on, I will do my utmost to be successful."
But the ones he did score were memorable.
Good luck to him.