Seydou Doumbia sets sights on firing Newcastle to Premier League safety

Seydou Doumbia will add to Newcastle's options up front.

The Ivorian striker has signed a loan deal at St James’s Park until the summer, with an option to make it permanent.

The 28-year-old – who spent the first half of the season on loan at CSKA Moscow – still needs to receive a visa before he is eligible to play for Newcastle.

He said: “I’m delighted to be a Newcastle United player.

“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.”