Ben Arfa switch close, Keane move “speculation” – Hughton

Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton has confirmed that the club are in advanced talks over signing Marseille star Hatem Ben Arfa.

The French international is expected to sign a season-long loan deal with an option to make the move permanent.

The permanent deal can be completed at the end of the season at only £5 million but Newcastle will have time to look at Ben Arfa closely as he plays at St. James’ Park.

Hughton said: “I can tell you there have been some discussions with Ben Arfa which are on-going.”

However, Hughton has snubbed rumors that the Magpies are ready to land Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane, insisting that the talks are mere ‘speculation’.

“That is one that is very much speculation as there has been with other names.”