Sol Campbell will remain in the Premier League this season after signing a one-year deal with newly-promoted Newcastle United.

The 35-year-old was out of contract after his short-term deal with Arsenal ran out earlier this summer. Campbell had courted interest from Newcastle's north-east rivals Sunderland as well as Celtic, but the Magpies emerged as the front-runners to secure his services and he completed a medical on Tyneside yesterday.

Campbell's signing will bolster a Newcastle defence that has been weakened by Steven Taylor's shoulder injury. Taylor is set to miss the start of the season, which begins away to Manchester United on 16 August, but there are fears he could be sidelined for several months, prompting the manager Chris Hughton to make his move for Campbell.

The former England international, who only 12 months ago was on the books of the then League Two side Notts County, said he was delighted to be a part of the club's quest to re-establish themselves in the top tier. "At this stage of my career I couldn't have wished for a better move," Campbell, who will wear the No5 shirt, told the club's website. "To join a club such as Newcastle United, with its proud tradition, heritage and magnificent support is absolutely tremendous for me.

"I'd like to thank Chris Hughton for putting his faith in me and I aim to repay him and the supporters by giving everything I possibly can to help re-establish this great club in the top tier of English football. I just want to play and can't wait to get started.

"There's a real buzz about the place and that's great. I've played at St James' Park numerous times and always found it a fantastic place to play. There's always a tremendous atmosphere. Chris will focus everyone together and get them ready for the season."

Hughton was delighted to secure the services of Campbell, who he worked alongside at Tottenham when he was assistant coach: "I have known Sol since he was a lad at Tottenham and am fully aware of what he has to offer. That is experience, quality, calm assurance and leadership. He's a dedicated professional, a terrific addition to the squad and I look forward to working with him again."

Sunderland's interest in the 73-times capped former England international diminished in recent weeks after they signed the defender Titus Bramble from Wigan, while they are also expected to use John Mensah for another season on loan from Lyon.

Campbell has only recently returned from his honeymoon after being married in Northumberland earlier this month. The central defender made a surprise return to the Premier League for a second spell with Arsenal last season, after he had played just one match before leaving Notts County.