Newcastle sign Mbabu

Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Swiss youngster Kevin Mbabu from Servette for an undisclosed fee.

The 17-year-old defender has signed a three-and-a-half year deal at St James’ Park after impressing during a trial spell.

Mbabu, who was delighted to put pen to paper, becomes Alan Pardew’s sixth signing of the window and will immediately join up with the reserves.

“I am delighted to join Newcastle United,” he told the club’s website.

“Today is a big day for me. I’ve always wanted to sign for a club in the Premier League and Newcastle is one of the biggest there is.

“I want to finish my development here with the reserves before one day training with the first team and hopefully breaking into the first team.”

Newcastle reserve team manager Willie Donachie was excited by the signing and said the Switzerland Under-19 international has a bright future ahead of him.

“Kevin is strong, confident, skilful and a very good prospect,” he said.

“He still has a lot to do as he is only 17 years old, but I saw him playing for Switzerland Under-19s against Scotland and he did really well.

“He can play central defence or right-back and if he keeps working hard then he could have a great future in the game.”