Newcastle United have signed South Korea captain Ki Sung-yueng on a free transfer from Swansea City as manager Rafa Benítez attempts to make the most of his budget at St James’ Park.

Benítez is hoping to sign Chelsea’s Brazilian winger Kenedy on a long-term contun deal after a successful loan spell last season and is also keen on Red Bull Salzburg playmaker Valon Berisha.

The pair are likely to cost at least £35m, which will use up a huge chunk of his transfer kitty. However, the Magpies are looking to raise another £20m with the sale of Serbia international Aleksandar Mitrovic to newly-promoted Fulham.

Benítez is also weighing up whether to listen to offers for Dwight Gayle and Matt Ritchie, although at the moment he is reluctant to lose two players who have been integral to the team’s success over the last two seasons.

The arrival of Ki is a bonus, though, particularly as he joins before the start of pre-season training next week.

The 29-year-old has signed an initial two-year deal and becomes the Magpies’ second signing of the summer following the arrival of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on a long-term deal.