Magpies take Ben Arfa on loan
Newcastle signed France winger Hatem Ben Arfa from Marseille on a season-long loan on Saturday.
Magpies' boss Chris Hughton had been keen to land Ben Arfa for several months and has finally managed to persuade the French champions to let him leave on loan with a view to a permanent transfer next year.
The 23-year-old had also been linked with a switch to German club Werder Bremen, but he insisted he was always keen to move to the Premier League team.
"It was always my first choice to come here and I'm delighted to be here," he said.
"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.
"All I'm waiting for is to show what I can do in front of the public in Newcastle. A lot of my friends in France already know the fans' reputation.
"The stadium has an ambience that is unique and I feel very lucky to have this opportunity."
Ben Arfa started his career at Lyon after graduating from the French football academy at Clairefontaine.
He has won eight caps for France, scoring twice, and is regarded as one of the most naturally talented players in the country.
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