Derby County have agreed a deal to sign winger Laurent Robert until the end of the season, subject to international clearance.

The 32-year-old has been without a club since Spanish side Levante released him at the end of last season, but is a familiar face among English fans.

The Frenchman spent four eventful years at Newcastle United, earning a reputation as a set-piece specialist, albeit a frustrating and occasionally moody player.

Robert's dribbling ability and long-range shooting made him a cult hero at St James's Park, although he infuriated then-manager Graeme Souness with his inconsistency.

He famously stripped to his briefs after his final appearance for the Magpies in 2005, giving the rest of his kit to fans.

An unsuccessful loan spell at Portsmouth followed, before stints at Benfica and Levante.

"The Derby manager called my agent to say he wanted me and I came quickly because the quality and the atmosphere in the Premier League is the best in the world," the 32-year old told the club's website.

"Everything you see here at the training ground is professional. I am very happy because I signed and for my head that is fantastic.

"I love football and I hope I will stay healthy."

Derby manager Paul Jewell said: "His ability is unquestioned and I think this could be a really good bit of business for us.

"He hasn't cost us anything in terms of a transfer fee and we had the chance to have a good look at him in training before making a decision.

"Laurent's key quality is what he can do with the ball - he can unlock the door, make things happen and produce a bit of magic."

Robert is the Rams' second major signing of the January transfer window after Argentinian striker Emanuel Villa.

Derby have also agreed a fee with Blackburn for Welsh midfielder Robbie Savage, and say they expect to sign a goalkeeper before the end of the week.

The Premier League's bottom club are in desperate trouble after winning just one of their first 21 games.

Alex Chick / Eurosport