Newcaste United sign Reims midfielder Romain Amalfitano

Newcaste United have completed the signing of out-of-contract Reims midfielder Romain Amalfitano. The Frenchman, 22-years-old, is officially still a Reims player until June 30th, but will be a Newcastle player come 1st July and joins on a 3-year-deal.

The Magpies, and Newcastle boss Alan Pardew have a history of making shrewd signings, turning little known talent into household names, with Papiss Cisse’s capture in January the most recent reminder of their skill in sniffing out top players. French midfielder Amalfitano will be hoping that he’s the next name to become a success-story at the Sports Direct Arena when his move completes in July.

Amalfitano is quoted on Newcastle’s official website as saying:

“I am very happy to be a Newcastle player.

“I have seen a bit of the city already and it is a change from France but one I am really looking forward to.

“When a club like Newcastle wants you to play for them it can only be a good thing. I have taken the opportunity to play in the Premier League and cannot wait to get going.”

The midfielder can either play in a central position as an attacking midfielder, or out on the right wing, so should help add further versatility to an already impressive Newcastle midfield which contains players like Hatem Ben Arfa, Cheik Tiote, and Yohan Cabaye. If Newcastle can keep all their star players this summer, they’re likely to be Champions League contenders again next season.

Amalfitano scored 10 goals in 68 appearances for Reims, helping the club get promoted to French Ligue 1 in 2011 / 12.