• Premier League

Magpies poised to wrap up Ben Arfa deal

ESPNsoccernet staff
December 30, 2010
Hatem Ben Arfa has not played since breaking his leg on October 3 © Getty Images
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Newcastle United are expected to announce the permanent signing of French midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa next week.

Ben Arfa, 23, joined Newcastle on a season-long loan from Marseille over the summer but saw an impressive start brought to a shuddering halt when his leg was broken in two places by Manchester City's Nigel de Jong in October.

Despite playing only four times for the club, Ben Arfa has done enough to convince Newcastle to arrange a permanent deal and it is reported the Magpies are poised to confirm a £5.1 million transfer.

It is believed Ben Arfa has met with new manager Alan Pardew on Tyneside, having been brought to the club during the reign of previous manager Chris Hughton.

The midfielder is making an excellent recovery from his serious injury and optimistically could be playing as early as February. Initially it was thought the injury would sideline him until April.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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