CHARVET COMPLETES CITY SWITCH

The 27-year-old right-sided defender has agreed a three-and-a-half deal with the Maine Road outfit and his transfer cost will rise by another £500,000 depending on the number of appearances he makes.

The former Chelsea player joined Newcastle in 1998 but he has found his opportunities restricted at St James' Park and United boss Bobby Robson was keen not to lose Charvet for nothing as his current contract expires at the end of the season.

Charvet is the second major signing in a week by City boss Joe Royle, after the capture of Richard Dunne from Everton last week, as he tries to strengthen his defensive options at the club.

Royle is delighted to have signed Charvet as he tries to build a side capable of surviving in the Premiership.

"We are delighted to have him," said Royle. "He's strong, quick and very experienced. He'll be a valuable asset to our Premiership squad."