Patrick Kluivert has arrived on Tyneside and is expected to sign a deal to make him a Newcastle United player.

He is set to agree a year’s loan deal that gives Newcastle the option of signing him permanently at the end of next season.

The 28 year-old is looking forward to the move.

“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, who has 79 caps, was released on a free by Spanish giants Barcelona and is thought to be close to an agreement with the Magpies.

His agent Paul Foortse said: “We’re hopeful because there is a willingness from both parties. Both parties want an agreement so I’m optimistic.”

If Kluivert signs, it may end Newcastle’s search for a long-term replacement for Alan Shearer who retires at the end of the season, although Southampton striker James Beattie is still being linked to the club by many sources.