By Saj Chowdhury
Newcastle are set to sign French midfielder Romain Amalfitano.
The 22-year-old will arrive on a free transfer after his contract with Stade de Reims expires in June.
Amalfitano, who helped the French club win promotion to Ligue 1, joins compatriots Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa at the Sports Direct Arena.
The Magpies, who finished fifth in the Premier League last season, will be looking to bolster the squad having qualified for the Europa League.
Amalfitano’s older brother, Morgan, 27, plays for Marseille.
Manager Alan Pardew was rewarded for leading Newcastle to their highest placing in the top flight in eight years by winning the Barclays and League Managers’ Association manager of the year awards.
