Butt seals Magpies move

The England international midfielder has signed a four-year deal at St James' Park in a transfer which has reportedly cost Newcastle £2.5 million.

The 29-year-old has spent 13 years at Old Trafford but found his first team chances limited last term, and the time had come to move on.

Sir Bobby Robson has been a long-term admirer of the central midfielder and sees him as the perfect replacement for the departed Gary Speed.

Butt flew back from United's pre-season tour of America as soon as a fee was agreed between the two clubs and Newcastle have now confirmed that he is their player.

"Nicky Butt has officially completed his transfer from Manchester United this morning," said a Newcastle spokesman.

"The player has signed a four-year contract and has been given squad number four for the 2004/05 season."