Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of versatile youngster Isaac Hayden from Arsenal.
The 21-year-old, who is equally comfortable in defence or midfield, joins the Magpies on a five-year contract after failing to make the grade at the Emirates Stadium.
Hayden played twice in the League Cup for the Gunners between 2013 and 2014, but never made a Premier League appearance and spent last season on loan at Hull City.
He is now in line for another promotion-chasing Championship campaign with Rafael Benitez, who is bolstering his squad in the hope of an immediate return to the flop flight.
Striker Dwight Gayle, winger Matt Richie, full-back Jesus Gamez and goalkeeper Matz Sels have already been signed, and Benitez is pleased with his latest addition in Hayden.
Benitez told Newcastle’s official website: “We continue with our plan to bring in players who are hungry to succeed and prove themselves, which Isaac really is.
“He is also a player who can play in different positions, which is very useful.
“Isaac is a young, strong English player with fantastic potential but also with some experience already of the Championship. We welcome him to the Club.”
Hayden was not always a regular in Hull’s well-stocked midfield last term, but made 24 appearances as the Tigers gained promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs.
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