Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan feels the capture of Deportivo La Coruna defender Fabricio Coloccini is the ideal tonic for fans concerned about a summer full of takeover speculation.

Keegan said: "Everyone in the club's pulling in the right direction. We've never been closer than we are now.

"The owner Mike Ashley said how he sees the club and if we could get two or three more like Coloccini on board, we could do this quicker and get where we want to be.

"We've come a long way from the end of last season. We all understand our roles.

"We are really looking to do the right things. We might not always achieve the ambitions we have got.

"The proof of the pudding is always in the eating. When we wrap up this period with the transfer deadline, they will see where we are. I am certainly excited.

"We have just broken our record for a defender and that sends out a message. If we are going to fetch a new player, let them be quality."