Newcastle has made their first significant signing since last season as France striker Loic Remy joins the Premier League club on a season-long loan from QPR.
Magpies director of football Joe Kinnear had come under fire for his failure to land any new players since his controversial appointment in June, but secured Remy’s services after several days of negotiations.
Before Remy’s signing, Kinnear’s only other capture was teenager Olivier Kemen from French side Metz, which had left Newcastle as the only top-flight team without a major signing during the close season.
Remy scored six goals in 14 appearances for QPR last season, but that wasn’t enough to prevent the team being relegated, and the 26-year-old made it clear he wanted to avoid playing in the second tier.
“I’m very happy to be a Newcastle player. It will be a huge honour to play for such a big club,” Remy told Newcastle’s website.
“The Premier League is the best league in the world and that’s where I want to play.
“I am very motivated this year to get into the World Cup squad for my country. I know in order to do that I need to have a big season and a successful campaign with Newcastle United.”
Kinnear, whose appointment sparked claims that owner Mike Ashley was trying to undermine manager Alan Pardew, believes Remy will prove a major coup for Newcastle, who have struggled for goals since the January departure of Demba Ba to Chelsea.
“The need for us to strengthen up front was a priority and I have been working very hard to secure one of our targets in this position,” Kinnear said.
“I know he’s hungry for goals and is absolutely committed to helping us achieve success this season.”