Newcastle sign Swiss defender Schar

British media reported Newcastle activated a 3 million pounds ($3.96 million) release clause in the 26-year-old’s contract with the Spanish club.

Schar made 25 appearances for Deportivo in La Liga last season, having moved to Spain from Hoffenheim a year ago.

“I hope to start training with the team soon and I’m looking forward to everything that’s coming,” he said in a statement. “At the moment, I just want to get started.”

Schar featured in three of Switzerland’s four World Cup matches in Russia, helping his team progress from the group stage, before missing their last-16 defeat by Sweden through suspension.

The ball-playing centre-back becomes the Newcastle’s fourth recruit in the close season window as manager Rafa Benitez continues to operate on a tight budget.

Newcastle, who finished 10th in the league last season, begin their new campaign against Tottenham Hotspur on August 11.