Haidara Signs For United
Newcastle United have made their fourth signing of the January transfer window - France under-21 international Massadio Haidara. The 20-year-old left-back, who arrives from Ligue 1 club Nancy, has agreed a five-and-a-half year contract with the Magpies and will take the squad number 19. Since making his debut in December 2010, the Trappes-born youngster had made more than 50 appearances for Les Chardons, the club where the legendary Michel Platini began his career. "It was the desire of the club to sign me up which was the most important factor," he said. "It was nothing to do with the league position.
"It was really all about the club's desire and willingness to sign me up. Also, I like the club's ambition to strengthen the whole team so we can improve our league position. That's what appealed to me so I didn't hesitate."
Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew added: "Massadio is very highly-thought of in France and he's somebody who our scouting team have been greatly impressed by.
"At the age of 20, he will only continue to get better but he's already played a lot of games in his country's top division and represented France at under-19, under-20 and under-21 level.
"He's strong and quick and we're looking forward to seeing him develop here."
