Dutch giants Ajax have confirmed the signing of Newcastle striker Albert Luque after he turned down a move to Spanish outfit Real Betis.

The Spaniard, 29, failed to shine at St James' Park following his move from Deportivo La Coruna in August 2005 and has joined the Amsterdammers for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal.

An Ajax statement read: "The striker will sign his contract at Ajax, which runs until June 30, 2010."