NEWCASTLE UNITED outcast Jamal Lewis has outlined his excitement ahead of a surprise move to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo.

Lewis has travelled to South America in order to complete a shock switch to Sao Paulo, who are currently sixth in the Brazilian top-flight following a weekend defeat to Fluminense.

The Northern Ireland international is understood to have completed a medical in Sao Paulo, and is completing the formalities of his switch from Tyneside. At this stage, it is unclear whether the move will be a loan or a permanent transfer.

“I want to try and win cups and push up the league,” said Lewis, when approached by Brazilian reporters.” I’m super excited to meet all the Sao Paulo fans. I’ve seen some games and I can’t wait to step out on that pitch.

"The Premier League is intense, it’s tough, it has a lot of quality, so hopefully I can bring a lot of that and contribute to Sao Paulo.”

Lewis joined Newcastle from Norwich City for around £15m in the summer of 2020, signing a five-year deal at St James’ Park.

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However, the left-back has been unable to establish himself as a first-team regular on Tyneside, making just 36 senior appearances for the Magpies.

He was omitted from Eddie Howe’s Premier League playing squad in the second half of the 2022-23 season, and spent last season on loan with Championship side Watford. He made 38 appearances for the Hornets last term, but his temporary employers opted against trying to sign him on a permanent basis this summer.

He was involved in Newcastle’s pre-season programme, but Howe made it clear that he did not see the 26-year-old featuring in his first-team plans this season.

It had been expected that Lewis would return to the Championship on loan ahead of last week’s transfer deadline, but by that stage, Sao Paulo had already made a formal approach to secure his services.

His switch to Brazil should be completed in the next couple of days, enabling him to join up with the Northern Ireland squad ahead of their forthcoming Nations League double-header against Luxembourg and Bulgaria.

“Jamal is planning to join us later in the week after he completes his visa requirements and medical checks in Brazil,” confirmed Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill. “We wish him the best of luck in his new move to Sao Paulo.”