Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce admits it was not easy to sign Ryan Fraser on a free transfer.

The Scotland star is arriving at the St. James' Park club after his contract with Bournemouth expired earlier this summer.

Fraser had a subpar season last term, but was excellent the year before.

"I'm delighted to bring Ryan to Newcastle United. We have held off big competition to get his signature and that says a lot about what this club has to offer," Bruce said in a statement.

"His ability and his contributions on the pitch speak for themselves and I'm looking forward to seeing him getting to work in a Newcastle shirt.

"He has wonderful chemistry on the pitch with Callum Wilson, which excites me, and I hope it excites our supporters ahead of the new season."