NEWCASTLE United new boy Claudio Cacapa says that he has wanted to join the club for a long time - but only realised just how big the Magpies were after coming to Tyneside last week.

The 31-year-old has been at United's training ground since Monday while the deal to bring the former Lyon captain to Gallowgate was finalised.

And the five-times French league champion says that after meeting Sam Allardyce and seeing the Toon Army during the friendly match against Juventus he realised exactly how big the the club is.

"I've been discussing with Newcastle and I've really wanted to come here for a long time," Cacapa told nufc.co.uk in an exclusive interview.

"I've been in Newcastle since last Sunday and I've really realised just how big a club it is and I hope I will be as happy here as I was in Lyon.

"I've spoken with Sam Allardyce since I've been here and I've been very impressed and I want to play for him.

"I was at the Juventus match and, even though it was only a friendly, the fans were fantastic - they were shouting and singing and making lots of noise and I can't wait to play at St.James' Park.

"It's a massive club with big potential and I want to be part of that."

The likeable Brazilian went on to say that he felt the time was right for a move after seven years at Lyon.

"I want a new challenge in a new country and the Premier League is a very competitive league," he added.

"I've got a lot to prove because the fans don't know me that well here, but I want to show everyone that I'm good enough to play for Newcastle United and I'm confident I can do that.

"My first club, Altetico Mineiro, played in black and white so I'm really to be wearing the same colours and I hope it will bring me a lot of luck like it did in Brazil."

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