United once again tried to sign Alan Shearer over the summer of 1996, but they were beaten to his signature by Newcastle United for a then world record fee of £15 million. A new striker did arrive at Old Trafford that summer – Ole Gunnar Solskjær, a little-known 23-year-old Norwegian striker who arrived at Old Trafford the day before Shearer signed for Newcastle. Another Norwegian, defender Ronny Johnsen, was also signed to fill the gap left by veteran Steve Bruce's departure to Birmingham City. United also paid £3.5 million for the Czech winger Karel Poborský, who had made the headlines with a spectacular goal for the Czechs at Euro 96. United also expanded their options in the wider attacking positions by signing Jordi Cruyff, son of the Dutch legend Johan, from Barcelona. However, it was Solskjær and Johnsen who would go on to enjoy the longest and most successful careers with United, whereas Poborský lasted just 18 months before being sold to Benfica, and Cruyff was unable to hold down a regular place during his four seasons at Old Trafford.