Newcastle United have signed Monaco midfielder Aladji Bamba for a fee which could rise to £34m.

Newcastle United have signed Monaco midfielder Aladji Bamba for a fee which could rise to £34m. The Frenchman has joined the club on a five-year deal after undergoing a medical on Tyneside on Thursday. "I was very excited when I heard Newcastle were interested in signing me," the 20-year-old said. "I know about the history of the club and I've visited the stadium already, which is amazing. I can't wait to be on the pitch there and hope to have some great times with the fans. "I'm excited to test myself in a new league, the biggest league in the world. I learned a lot last season and now I feel ready for this new opportunity. I will give my all for this club." Bamba only made his professional debut last season, but caught the eye of Newcastle with his performances in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. Among Ligue 1 midfielders who played at least 500 minutes last season, Bamba ranked in the top five for duels won (9.1 per game on average), tackles (3.6), successful take-ons (1.6) and aerial duels won (1.9). Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said he was "another exciting, young signing who we're really looking forward to working with".