Senegal international striker Demba Ba has joined Newcastle United, signing a three-year-deal at St. James' Park.
The former West Ham front man, who scored 7 goals in 12 league appearances for the Hammers last season, is Alan Pardew's second signing of the summer, following on from French midfielder Yohan Cabaye.
The 26-year-old was born in Sevres, a suburb of Paris, and is one of eight children. Capped 10 times by Senegal, with three international goals to his name, Ba has also had spells with Rouen, Mouscron and 1899 Hoffenheim. He was briefly on Watford's books, back in 2005, but ended up starting his professional career at Rouen in the Normandy region of France.
His international debut, coupled with a debut goal, came in June 2007 against Tanzania.
Manager Alan Pardew said:
"Demba made a great impression with West Ham last season and is a great signing for this club. He has pace, excellent technical ability, is good in the air and, it goes without saying, has the ability to consistently find the back of the net. Moreover he has a great passion to play for Newcastle United."
Ba will wear the number 19 shirt next season.
http://www.nufc.co.uk/articles/20110617/ba-seals-united-move_2281670_2377974
