NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed the signing of Isaac Hayden from Arsenal.

Hayden, who can play in the back four or in defensive midfield, has signed a five-year deal at St James' Park and has already joined up with the rest of his new team-mates at Newcastle's training camp in Ireland.


The 21-year-old moves for an undisclosed fee, which is understood to have been around £2.5m.

Hayden progressed through Arsenal's academy and made his senior debut in September 2013 in a League Cup tie against West Bromwich Albion.

The England Under-20 international spent last season on loan at Hull City, making 24 appearances as the Tigers won promotion from the Championship via the play-offs.

"Newcastle is a massive football club and to be given the opportunity to come here and progress my career is fantastic," said Hayden.

"Being at Arsenal was a great experience, I learnt a lot there and have a lot to thank them for, but I needed to move on and so when Newcastle came in for me I jumped at the chance.

"I am still young but I want to get as many games under my belt as I can and help the team bounce back to the Premier League."

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez added: "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."