Newcastle United have signed 20-year-old midfielder Aladji Bamba from AS Monaco on a five-year contract. The deal, completed on Friday, is reported to be for a fee that could rise to 34 million pounds. Bamba, a France under-20 international who played in the Champions League last season, becomes the club's fourth signing of the summer.
The move comes after midfielder Sandro Tonali left Newcastle for Tottenham and amid reports that Bruno Guimaraes could also leave. Bamba is expected to compete with Miley for the No 6 role. Coach Eddie Howe stated that the player adds depth and a range of qualities to the midfield options, noting his impressive development since breaking through at Monaco.
Bamba expressed excitement about joining the club and testing himself in the Premier League, mentioning his admiration for the club's history and stadium. This signing follows the club's earlier acquisition this month of 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur.