By Tyne-Talk
January 5 2011

Newcastle United have confirmed their first signing of the transfer window is a four and a half year deal for Marseille winger Hatem Ben Arfa. Ben Arfa, who former manager Chris Hughton signed on loan, looked extremely promising before having his leg broken by Manchester City's Nigel De Jong back in October 2010.

The 23 year old has recently spoken out about his love of the club and has told nufc.co.uk he is delighted with the permanent deal. He said;

"I am absolutely delighted to be signing for Newcastle United on a permanent basis. During my short time at the club, I thoroughly enjoyed playing for the team and for the supporters too. This is a great club and I am very happy to be committing my future to them.

I am getting back to fitness as quickly as I can and am really looking forward to getting back to St James' Park, seeing the lads again and of course working with Alan Pardew and his staff.

During my time out, I have been inundated with messages of support from fans and I want to repay them all with good performances on the pitch later this season."

Manager Alan Pardew also confirmed his happiness, stating that this was the one priority he had for the transfer window;

"When I came to the club last month, one of my priorities was to secure Hatem on a permanent deal. The last thing I wanted was for us to lose him when his loan ended so we're really pleased to have agreed that deal today.

He's obviously a top player and he's shown that in France, at international level and in his short time here at Newcastle.

I'm delighted to secure Hatem as my first signing and once he's back fit, I have no doubt he'll confirm just what a superb player he is."

Toon Confirm Ben Arfa Signing

Discussion started by TyneTalk (IP Logged), 05/01/2011 10:38

TyneTalk
05/01/2011 10:38

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waffles
05/01/2011 13:00

Sensational news, and another 5 year deal.

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nufctrotter73
05/01/2011 13:33

great signing,,,plus 5mil fee too good on pardew for getn ashley to loosen his purse strings. maybe david bentley next for around 5mil or a loan deal,have we got another 5mil to spend? heres hoping

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annie
05/01/2011 13:57

Great news if his playing ability is not lessened by the injury.

Good luck to him.


.

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tunyc
05/01/2011 17:21

It's a roll of the dice but he's got huge upside and let's face it: under ideal circumstances we can't afford him.

Hope to see you on the pitch soon, Hatem!

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