Teenage star Gael Bigirimana leaves Sky Blues for Newcastle

Gael Bigirimana has joined up with Premier League high-flyers Newcastle United. 32.011.007.cov.jg4

GAEL Bigirimana has joined Newcastle United on a five-year-deal.

The popular midfielder - with the Sky Blues since 2004 - leaves the club for an undisclosed fee, although a figure of £1 million has been reported.

The 18-year-old broke into City’s first team last season, making 26 appearances, and was one of the few positives to come out a dismal campaign.

It will come as a blow to Sky Blues' fans after the club signed three players in as many days earlier this week.

Chief executive Tim Fisher admitted the club wanted to keep hold of the Burundi-born wonderkid but could not stop him from playing at a higher level.

"When the Premier League comes calling – particularly a club the size of Newcastle United – it becomes increasingly difficult to stand in the player’s way," he said.

"We would have liked him to have developed further here at Coventry City but that wasn’t to be so we have acted in the best interests of the club and have agreed a fee that we feel reflects his value.

"All of the money will be reinvested across the entire football side of the business – from youth development to the first team.

"Finally, we would like to wish Gael all the very best for the future."

The Magpies announced their new signing earlier today (Friday) and said Bigirimana would begin his career on Tyneside with the club's youth academy.

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