Ciaran Clark completes Newcastle United move

Newcastle United have announced the arrival of defender Ciaran Clark from Aston Villa on a five-year contract.

The 26-year-old, who came through the Villa Park ranks before making his senior debut in 2009, joins the Magpies for an undisclosed fee.

Clark had been closing in on a switch to St James' Park over the past few days after agreeing terms with the club, and a deal has now been struck between the Championship rivals.

"Newcastle is a massive club so I'm really happy to be here," Clark told his new side's official website. "Importantly, it is a club that is moving in the right direction and pushing for the right things, so I'm really excited to now be a part of that.

"Things seem to have progressed really quickly over the last few days but I'm delighted to have got it all done and be a part of this squad."

Rafael Benitez, who has already added a number of big-money players to his ranks this summer, said: "Ciaran is a very versatile player, as a left-footed centre-back he can also play left-back and also as a defensive midfielder.

"He has a lot of experience of English football and will add good balance and competition to our squad. I am sure he will progress with us here at Newcastle, we are very happy for him to join us."

Clark departs Villa having made 159 appearances for the club, while also being capped 19 times for the Republic of Ireland.