DISTIN ARRIVES IN NEWCASTLE

Magpies boss Bobby Robson expects to complete the move for the Paris Saint Germain star in a day or so after revealing that he had arrived at St James' Park.

"I can't deny that we have Sylvain Distin here," said Robson. "He's undergoing medicals today with a view that hopefully we will be able to sign him."

The 23-year-old will join-up with former PSG team-mate Laurent Robert until the end of the season, when a permanent move could be brokered between the clubs depending on his performances.

Robson has been chasing Distin, who turned down a move to Bolton Wanderers, for some time and is very happy with the arrangement that has been agreed.

"We are signing him on loan, which is really great for us because it means we'll have him all year and we can have a look at him.

"He's left-footed which is one of the big reasons why I am signing him. I just like left-footers on the left side of the pitch and he gives us that option.

"He's a high quality player. He's 6ft 4in, he's an Olympic sprinter and he's got a left foot.

"There were lots of clubs after him but he's chosen us."