MEHDI ABEID has become Newcastle United’s latest signing today, with manager Alan Pardew focused on adding further new recruits.

Abeid, who turns 19 next month, is a French Under-19 international who qualifies to play for Algeria and France and has moved from Lens.

The deal has been in place for a number of weeks but could not take place until July 1.

The Newcastle boss has already signed Yohan Cabaye, Sylvain Marveaux and Demba Ba.

Charles N’Zogbia has also hinted that he would be interested in a move back to St James’ Park, although Newcastle would have to bow to his £65,000-a-week wage demands.

Pardew remains interested in Mevlut Erdinc, Tranquillo Barnetta, Blaise Matuidi, Darron Gibson and Neil Taylor.

Pardew, however, accepts he will not be signing all of those before the transfer window closes on August 31.

“I am really pleased with the way the squad is taking shape. I’m excited,” said Pardew, who is particularly keen on adding a new left-back and a striker to his ranks.

“You could say we have got five new players who we didn’t have last year.

“We have obviously lost Kevin Nolan, but we have gained Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba, Sylvain Marveaux - and then there is Hatem Ben Arfa and Dan Gosling coming back from injury.

“Hatem could be the best signing if he stays fit all year, and we are looking forward to seeing what Dan can do as well.”