Newcastle United sign Achraf Lazaar from Palermo

Achraf Lazaar of Palermo celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Citta di Palermo at Stadio Friuli on April 12, 2015
© Getty Images
Newcastle United announce the signing of defender Achraf Lazaar from Palermo for an undisclosed fee.

Newcastle United have announced the signing of defender Achraf Lazaar from Palermo for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old joined Palermo in January 2014, initially on loan, helping them to the Serie B title in his first season before becoming a regular in the top flight.

The Morocco international has signed a five-year deal with the Magpies, keeping him at St James' Park until 2021.

"I am very happy to be at Newcastle United. I'm proud to sign here because Newcastle is a great team in England," he told the club's official website.

Manager Rafael Benitez added: "Achraf is a good, young player with international experience who has grown his game in Italy. He gives us width on the left, has a good left foot and will add great competition to the squad."

Lazaar, who becomes Newcastle's 11th signing of the summer, made 76 appearances for Palermo, scoring three goals.

Achraf Lazaar of Palermo celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Citta di Palermo at Stadio Friuli on April 12, 2015
Read Next:
Newcastle 'in talks' for Palermo left-back
>

Tables
LIVE SCORES VIDEPRINTER
expand