Newcastle United signing Jeff Hendrick admits he had interest from AC Milan this summer.

Hendrick has admitted being linked with AC Milan during the summer provided him with a confidence boost.

The Magpies ultimately won the race to sign the 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international after his contract at Burnley had expired, but knowing that they had had to fight off competition from the Serie A giants put a smile on his face.

Speaking about Milan's interest as he was unveiled at a press conference on Friday, Hendrick said: "Yes, there was interest there. I know there was a bit of interest and that was it.

"It was a really nice feeling when I was told they were interested. Everyone knows that club, it's massive, so it gave me a bit of a confidence boost, I have to say."

He added: "I'm delighted.

"It's a massive club, I love to play at the stadium here and I've been dying to get going.

"I had a great four years at Burnley, I really enjoyed it, but I wanted a new challenge and want to play in the middle, which is where I see myself."