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Confirmed: Rolando Aarons pens new five-year contract at Newcastle
ROLANDO AARONS has signed a new five-year contract with Newcastle.
Rolando Aarons signs new five-year deal despite Premier League interest
The 20-year-old winger has pledged his future at St James' Park until 2021, in a boost to the Tynesiders as they get to grips with life in the Championship.
Aarons insisted Rafael Benitez's long-term vision for Newcastle convinced him to commit to the club he joined from Bristol City in 2012.
The England Under-21 international has attracted interest Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham, according to the Independent, but has opted to stay put.
The Premier League giants have reportedly been keeping tabs on the youngster's progress over the last season, in which he scored twice and assisted as many in 20 top-flight appearances.
"It's something that was always going to happen but it's nice to get it done," Aarons told club's official website. "I love the club and this shows it even more."
Newcastle were hit with the full realities of life outside the Premier League by losing their opening Championship clash 1-0 at Fulham on Friday night.
Rolando Aarons highlights Rafa Benitez as reason to commit future to Newcastle
But that has not dimmed Aarons' enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the north-east as Newcastle target an immediate Premier League return after last term's relegation.
"Under the new manager there's a project and it's a forward-thinking club now, so I'm just happy to be part of what the manager has in store for the club," said Aarons.
"And I'm happy that he has faith in me. I'd like to repay him and the fans and my family for this opportunity."