Newcastle United have completed the signing of Bruno Guimaraes, taking their January spending to £75million.
The Magpies faced stiff opposition from Arsenal for the Lyon midfielder, but won the transfer race, parting with £35million to get the deal over the line.
Guimaraes has put pen to paper on a long-term deal and follows Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood in the door at St James' Park.
The Brazilian has garnered a vert strong reputation in Europe, for his combating and classy displays in Ligue 1.
And Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was absolutely delighted with the Brazilian’s arrival, a signing he hopes will boost his side's chances of Premier League survival this season.
"Bruno is a hugely exciting talent and has been one of our primary targets so I'm delighted to secure him,” Howe said after his arrival.
“He strengthens the group immediately ready for the challenge ahead.
"He has been one of the standout performers in France and is a full international for Brazil so I have no doubt our supporters will really enjoy watching him.
“We look forward to welcoming him to the club on his return from international duty."
Despite operating as a defensive midfielder, Guimaraes as also managed to help himself to four assists in 20 Ligue 1 appearances for Lyon.
He has also impressed on the European stage for Peter Bosz’s side, contributing two assists in five Europa League matches this season.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was believed to be very interested in a move for the 24-year-old, but Newcastle were the side who were able to get the deal over the line.
He will play a huge role in Newcastle’s bid to avoid an untimely drop into the Championship.
The Magpies jumped into 18th place and within one point of safety when they secured their first away victory of the season against Leeds United.
And Guimaraes’ signing looks to have come at the perfect time for the Magpies who have been building some positive momentum.
Howe’s put on a poker face recently when asked about his imminent arrival, but he did insist that Newcastle’s interest in signing players had not waned.
“There’s nothing on individual players but we are hopeful we are getting close to completing a transfer,” Howe said during a press conference in Saudi Arabia.
“Fingers crossed we are close to getting one over the line.
“From my perspective I don’t imagine that would be the end of our interest in bringing new players in. Whether that turns into reality, who knows?
“Things change very late in this window as everybody knows, it can be quite unpredictable in the last couple of days.
“We’re open. We’re working hard to improve the squad. Our biggest aim is to give the team the best chance of staying in the league.”
Brighton and Hove Albion defender Dan Burn is also believed to be on Newcastle's transfer list.
Sky Sports News understands the Magpies have agreed a £13m fee for the central defender.
