Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew says new signing Papiss Demba Cisse has always been a priority target.

The striker has signed a five and a half year deal and arrives from Freiburg after 37 goals in 65 games.

Pardew said: "Ever since Andy Carroll left, Papiss was my first choice in the specific role he has at the end of the play.

"He is a finisher with an already-established CV in the Bundesliga, where we have monitored him for the best part of two years.

"Unfortunately he was out of reach, financially, for us in the summer, but it recently became apparent that Derek Llambias and Lee Charnley could do the deal in this window.

"It has become obvious this season that the team and the Club have done exceptionally well, and Mike Ashley has backed me to bring this player to the Club.

"I would like to thank Mike, Derek and everyone involved for getting this deal over the line.

"I spoke to Demba about Papiss, and he cannot wait to join up with his teammate in Newcastle.

"In the short-term, of course, he is at the Africa Cup of Nations, but the competition he will bring to our squad when he joins up with us should inspire the players and reassure them of this Club's ambition.

"Our fans know that this shirt brings its own pressures. One of the iconic numbers in world football - the number nine of Newcastle.

"It will be only fair that Papiss is given time to understand the responsibility it brings.

"As the manager, I wish him all the luck in the world to bring success to himself and this Club."