Senegal defender Lamine Diatta has signed for Newcastle despite reports that the move had broken down.

The 32-year-old was a free agent after leaving Besiktas.

He originally rejected terms but agreed a compromise, signing until the end of the season with a view to a longer contract.

Diatta - who has played for Marseille, St. Etienne and Lyon - was on trial at St. James's Park but was believed to have opted against becoming Kevin Keegan's first signing despite passing a medical and provisionally agreeing terms.

Newcastle have failed to win in the seven Premier League matches Keegan has taken charge of since the sacking of Sam Allardyce in December

Reda Maher / Eurosport