Newcastle United have completed the signing of Seydou Doumbia from AS Roma on loan until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old will move to the club, subject to the player receiving his appropriate visa, with an option to make the move a permanent one in summer.

Doumbia's journey to the Premier League

The Ivorian international started his career in his homeland before making a name for himself at Kashiwa Reysol and Tokushima Vortis in the J League. From there, the forward joined Swiss side Young Boys – scoring 58 goals in 79 games – before securing a move to CSKA Moscow.

During a five year spell, Doumbia lifted the league title on two occasions as well as two Russian Cups and two Super Cups, whilst featuring in the Champions League.

Doumbia sealed a move to Serie A side Roma in January 2015 before being loaned back to his former CSKA side last August, before completing a move to Newcastle United.

“I’m delighted to be a Newcastle player,” Doumbia told nufc.co.uk. “I’ve already started to prepare. I’ve arrived and I’m ready to go.”

Doumbia stated it had “always been a dream to play in the Premier League,” which has now “come true.”

Steve McClaren was said to be “delighted” when the opportunity arose to bring Doumbia in on loan.

“He is a natural goalscorer,” said McClaren. “Someone who has goals in the Champions League and has played at the highest level. We believe he can make a mark in this team.”

The Magpies manager made it no secret the Tyneside club were in need of another striker following the injury to Papiss Cisse and Emmanuel Riviere failing to regain full fitness.

“The burden has fallen on Mitro and Ayo to lead the line for us,” said McClaren.

Newcastle United leaving it late

Doumbia’s move to Newcastle United is certainly one that has pleased the Geordie fans. Saido Berahino and Loic Remy were linked with a move to the club over January but it was Doumbia who grabbed the headlines with a late move.

“We needed someone with a bit more experience in there as we’ve fallen short in that department,” added McClaren. “Hopefully Seydou can come in and make his mark at this club over the next few months and help us get some wins.”

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