Kluivert set for Newcastle
Newcastle are expected to unveil Patrick Kluivert as their latest signing at a 1530 BST news conference.
The 28-year-old jetted into Tyneside on Wednesday morning to complete his switch from Barcelona.
He is set to join on a year-long loan deal with a view to a permanent move at the end of the new season.
"It's a great club with great players and I hope I can fit in. It's an honour to play for such a passionate audience," said Kluivert.
The Dutch international's agent, Paul Foortse, had earlier said that his client was 95% certain of joining the club.
Chairman Freddy Shepherd returned from the club's Far East tour on Tuesday and entered negotiations with Foortse.
"We're hopeful because there is a willingness from both parties. Both parties want to have an agreement, so we're optimistic," said Foortse.
Newcastle have been chasing a new striker this summer as they look for a long-term replacement for Alan Shearer, who is retiring at the end of this season.
Southampton's James Beattie has also been linked with a move to St James' Park.
He has won 79 caps for Holland and was part of the Dutch squad at Euro 2004 but did not make it onto the pitch during the tournament, with Ruud van Nistelrooy winning the battle to start as the lone striker.
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from the bbc site
Newcastle are expected to unveil Patrick Kluivert as their latest signing at a 1530 BST news conference.
The 28-year-old jetted into Tyneside on Wednesday morning to complete his switch from Barcelona.
He is set to join on a year-long loan deal with a view to a permanent move at the end of the new season.
"It's a great club with great players and I hope I can fit in. It's an honour to play for such a passionate audience," said Kluivert.
The Dutch international's agent, Paul Foortse, had earlier said that his client was 95% certain of joining the club.
Chairman Freddy Shepherd returned from the club's Far East tour on Tuesday and entered negotiations with Foortse.
"We're hopeful because there is a willingness from both parties. Both parties want to have an agreement, so we're optimistic," said Foortse.
Newcastle have been chasing a new striker this summer as they look for a long-term replacement for Alan Shearer, who is retiring at the end of this season.
Southampton's James Beattie has also been linked with a move to St James' Park.
He has won 79 caps for Holland and was part of the Dutch squad at Euro 2004 but did not make it onto the pitch during the tournament, with Ruud van Nistelrooy winning the battle to start as the lone striker.
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from the bbc site
