Newcastle United FC

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Magpies finally land Ben Arfa

28 Aug 2010 - 14:46:57

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Newcastle United have clinched the signing of France international Hatem Ben Arfa from Marseille.

The 23-year-old winger has joined the Magpies on an initial season-long loan, but could sign permanently should he impress during his time at St James' Park.

The Tyneside club had been on the trail of the international wideman throughout the summer but found Marseille unwilling to do business.

Ben Arfa, who has been capped eight times by France, hit out at the Ligue 1 side last week after accusing them of standing in the way of a dream move to the Premier League.

"It was always my first choice to come here and I'm delighted to be here," he told the club's official website after being confirmed as a Newcastle player.

"I've paid real attention to the history of the club and the great players to have played for it and particularly the supporters and I want to showcase my skills in Newcastle."

Marseille paid 11million euros to land the talented youngster back in 2008 and Magpies boss Chris Hughton believes he has completed a transfer coup.

"Hatem is a player who we have been tracking for a long time, and what is important is that he is not only a young player who should continue to improve, but somebody who already has a great reputation in the game," he explained.

"We think he will add flair to the squad and we're confident he'll fit in well with the team that we have put together here.

"He will, I am sure, prove to be a great addition."