Newcastle have completed the loan signing of Ivory Coast international striker Seydou Doumbia



By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Newcastle United have completed the loan signing of Ivory Coast international striker Seydou Doumbia from AS Roma, subject to the player receiving the appropriate visa.

The 28-year-old moves to St. James' Park until the end of the season, with an option to make the deal permanent in the summer.

After starting his career in his homeland, Doumbia made a name for himself in Japan's J League with Kashiwa Reysol and Tokushima Vortis, before switching to Swiss club Young Boys in 2008.

He netted 58 goals in just 79 appearances, which prompted a move to CSKA Moscow in January 2010.

During five trophy-laden years in Russia, Doumbia fired CSKA to two league titles, two Russian Cups and two Russian Super Cups, as well as featuring in the Champions League, where he scored 16 goals in just 23 appearances.

He signed for Italian giants Roma in January 2015 before being loaned back to CSKA Moscow last August.

"I'm delighted to be a Newcastle United player," said Doumbia.

"I've already started to prepare. I've arrived and I'm ready to go.

"It has always been a dream to play in the Premier League and now that dream has come true, so I'm absolutely delighted.

"I am looking forward to helping the Club get some wins and climb the table."

Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren added: "It is no secret that we have been looking to add to our options in the striking area.

"We have been searching for a forward and were delighted when the opportunity arose to take Seydou on loan.

"He is a natural goalscorer, someone who has scored goals in the Champions League and has played at the highest level. We believe he can make a mark in this team."