Senegal international Lamine Diatta has signed for Newcastle United until the end of the season, reports the Evening Chronicle.

The deal had looked to have collapsed after Diatta - who was out of contract - failed to agree terms during five hour talks yesterday (Wednesday).

But after a change in heart from the former Lyon defender will play for a longer contract between now and the end of the season.

The African is expected to give Kevin Keegan more defensive options when he is fully match fit but that may not be for a couple of weeks.