Newcastle United have completed the signing of highly-rated French midfielder Aladji Bamba from AS Monaco, with the 20-year-old putting pen to paper on a five-year contract.
Both clubs confirmed the transfer on Friday, with reports indicating the deal is worth €35 million (£40 million). Monaco will also receive a percentage of any future transfer fee should Newcastle sell the midfielder later in his career.
Bamba becomes Newcastle’s fourth signing of the summer transfer window as manager Eddie Howe continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
Expressing his excitement after completing the move, Bamba said joining Newcastle was an opportunity he could not turn down.
“I was very excited when I heard Newcastle were interested in signing me. 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 joined Monaco in 2021 and made 25 first-team appearances for the Ligue 1 side, featuring 18 times in the league, twice in the French Cup, and five times in the UEFA Champions League. Monaco finished fifth in Ligue 1 last season.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe welcomed the arrival of the young midfielder, describing him as a player with enormous potential.
“Aladji adds depth and a range of qualities to our midfield options, with huge potential for growth. His development since breaking through at Monaco has been really impressive and something we believe we can help him build on.”
The Magpies, who finished 12th in the Premier League last season, are hoping Bamba’s arrival will strengthen their midfield as they aim for a more competitive campaign in the upcoming season.
