Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye joins Crystal Palace

French midfielder Yohan Cabaye completed his move from Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain to Premier LThurseague club Crystal Palace on Thursday. The 29-year-old signed a 3-year deal for an undisclosed fee that is supposed to be The Eagles record transfer.

The move marks Cabaye’s second stint in the EPL having spent three years at Newcastle under current Palace manager Alan Pardew. He spent one season in Paris, playing 35 games in the lead up to PSG’s domestic quadruple.

Newcastle enjoyed their best period under Pardew when the duo were at St. James’ Park between 2011 and 2014. Cabaye joined Paris Saint-Germain at the end of that season despite being linked with several clubs in the Premier League. His return to England also saw renewed interest in the player but he chose to pair up with his former manager at Selhurst Park.

On joining the Eagles, the Frenchman spoke to the club’s official website, he said: “I’m happy to be here. I’ve been waiting for the decision, had the medical and now I can’t wait to focus on my new team, a new season and my new life.

“I wanted to come and play for Palace because there are some really strong players here. They finished very well last season and I think they can compete to get into the top eight.  

“I also know the gaffer and have worked with him before and I’m confident with him. I want to do my best for him because he’s made a big effort to get me to come here, as well as the Chairman, so I have to say a big thank you to both of them.”

The French midfielder will add a wealth of experience to Crystal Palace’s midfield as they gear up for a strong 2015/16 campaign following a strong second half of last season after Alan Pardew took over the reins.

Cabaye often struggled for regular football at the Parisian club competing with the likes of Marco Veratti, Adrien Rabiot and Blaise Matuidi for midfield berths. Though he did well in spells at PSG, his best so far came in Newcastle’s black and white in his first season there when the Tynesiders finished 5th  in the league.

Cabaye will no doubt be hoping for a similar successful campaign on being reunited with his old boss. Given Palace’s exploits last season, they might be ones to watch out next season.

The club has also announced a new shirt sponsorship deal with Mansion House.