Chelsea's Babayaro set for New Year's Day move to Newcastle

Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro, who is set to become a Newcastle player on New Year's Day as the first player to be signed by manager Graeme Souness after the transfer window opens.

Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro is set to become a Newcastle player on New Year's Day as the first player to be signed by manager Graeme Souness after the transfer window opens.

The 26-year-old Nigerian international, who would have been out of contract at Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, has been on Tyneside this week to thrash out a deal which will see him move to St James' Park for an undisclosed fee on Saturday.

Babayaro will be available for selection from January 4, meaning that his debut could come in the FA Cup third round clash with Ryman League Yeading five days later, and he is also eligible for the club's European campaign because he has not played for Chelsea in this season's Champions League.

"Newcastle United confirmed today that, following negotiations with Celestine Babayaro, agreement has been reached that he will join Newcastle United on January 1, 2005," said a club spokesman. "The player will be transferred from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee."