Magpies snap up Lens youngster

Published May. 25, 2011 3:15 p.m. ET

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The 18-year-old has agreed a five-year contract at St James' Park after being impressed by the North East club. Everton, Atletico Madrid, Rennes and Le Mans were also keen on the holding midfielder - but he will now be moving to Tyneside this summer. "After eight fantastic years at Lens, I have stagnated. I needed a change of air. I am not afraid to leave for abroad," he told L'Equipe. "I have had contact dating back some time and I visited the facilities there last week. I even trained with the reserve team. "The leaders of the club told me about their plans and that they will rely on me for next season. "For my part, I intend to give everything to develop in the Premier League. "I already discussed things with Hatem Ben Arfa and Cheick Tiote and they encouraged me and welcomed my signature."