Newcastle Jets take gamble on misfiring Brazilian striker Jair

Newcastle Jets have finally dipped into the transfer market, announcing the signing of Brazilian striker Jair Eduardo Britto da Silva.

The 30-year-old centre forward joins on a one-year deal after a barren stint for Chinese second division side Yanbian Funde - failing to hit the back of the net in 11 appearances.

Jair has produced the goods in Korea's K-League previously, scoring 46 goals in 110 appearances across stints at Jeju United and Jeonnam Dragons.

Jets coach Ernie Merrick was excited about how the Internacional youth product will link up with the other attackers at the club.

"Jair has great experience, attacking flair and has played at a couple of Korea’s biggest clubs," Merrick said.
 
"He’s been successful in a high quality league over an extended period, to have scored so many goals in a league as competitive and technical as the K-League is certainly impressive.
 
"I’m really looking forward to how he can combine with the likes of Ronnie (Vargas) and Dimi (Petratos) to create goal-scoring opportunities.
 
"I’ve watched the way Jair goes about his business and I think he’s the sort of attacking player our fans can be excited about."

The acquisition is the Jets' second of the off-season, with the club securing Wellington Phoenix midfielder Matthew Ridenton in May.