Newcastle United sign Isaac Hayden from Arsenal on five-year deal

Newcastle United have announced the signing of defender Isaac Hayden from Arsenal on a five-year deal.

The 21-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Hull City, has joined Rafael Benitez's side in the Championship after an eight-year spell with the Gunners.

Hayden made his senior debut at the North London club in the League Cup in September 2013, but failed to earn a regular spot in Arsene Wenger's team.

Now, the England Under-20 international has opted to cut ties with Arsenal and force his way into the team at St James' Park.

Welcome, @IsaacHayden65! #NUFC pic.twitter.com/UHk3PnBUmL

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 11, 2016

"Newcastle is a massive football club and to be given the opportunity to come here and progress my career is fantastic," Hayden told the club's official website.

"Being at Arsenal was a great experience, I learnt a lot there and have a lot to thank them for, but I needed to move on and so when Newcastle came in for me I jumped at the chance. I am still young but I want to get as many games under my belt as I can and help the team bounce back to the Premier League."

Benitez added: "We continue with our plan to bring in players who are hungry to succeed and prove themselves, which Isaac really is. He is also a player who can play in different positions, which is very useful.

"Isaac is a young, strong English player with fantastic potential but also with some experience already of the Championship. We welcome him to the club."

Hayden made 24 appearances for Hull last season.