Toon Confirm Ben Arfa Signing
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."
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Good luck to him.
.
Hope to see you on the pitch soon, Hatem!
