Done deal: Newcastle complete deal for international left-back
Transfers

Done deal: Newcastle complete deal for international left-back

Wayne Veysey
Wayne Veysey

Founder & Managing Director AUTHORITY Former chief correspondent at Evening Standard, Goal and Press Association with nearly three decades in national, regional and digital news and sports journalism. Wayne directs the network’s news strategy and high-level operations. FOCUS Editorial direction for the 11-site network and newsroom management. THE BRIEF Wayne oversees the network’s editorial standards across the network. He provides the final sign-off on all headline scoops, ensuring content across all platforms meets the standards required for a high-velocity newsroom.

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By Joe Nelson

Newcastle United have completed the signing of left-back Achraf Lazaar from Palermo, as announced on their website and Twitter page on Sunday evening.

The Magpies website confirmed the move of Lazaar, who has put pen to paper in a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old Moroccan was in attendance for Newcastle's 2-0 win over Brighton on Saturday afternoon, as they jumped into fourth place in the Championship.

"I am very happy to be at Newcastle United," said Lazaar.

"I'm proud to sign here because Newcastle is a great team in England."

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez added: "Achraf is a good, young player with international experience who has grown his game in Italy.

"He gives us width on the left, has a good left foot and will add great competition to the squad."

Lazaar came through the youth set-up at Italian club Varese and spent two years in the first team before joining Palermo in January 2014, initially on loan.

He made a total of 76 appearances for Palermo, scoring three goals during his time at the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

The 14-time capped international was integral to Palermo’s Serie A campaign last season, making 30 domestic appearances for Davide Ballardini’s side.

The left-back position has proven to be a problem for the north east club with Paul Dummett, Ciaran Clark and Jesus Gamez all occupying the role in the early stages of the new campaign.

Benitez has already outspent his Championship rivals this summer with some big signings, notably Dwight Gayle and Matt Ritchie, who joined for a combined £24million.

In other Newcastle transfer news, their central midfielder is in talks over a move away.

Newcastle United
Rafael Benitez
Achraf lazaar
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