Newcastle United sign Arsenal defender

Arsenal graduate Isaac Hayden has joined Championship side Newcastle United on a five-year contract. The 21-year-old spent the previous season on loan at Hull City where he made 24 appearances in all competitions.

The centre-back ends his eight-year association with the Gunners having failed to earn a first-team place under Arsene Wenger.

"Newcastle is a massive football club and to be given the opportunity to come here and progress my career is fantastic," Hayden told the club's official website.

"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."

Hayden is the Magpies' fifth signing of the transfer window following the likes of Matz Sels, Matt Ritchie, Dwight Gayle and Jesus Gamez.