Newcastle United new boy Florian Thauvin has revealed plans to develop into one of the world's finest footballers during his spell at St James' Park.

The French midfielder, 22, is the Magpies' latest summer recruit following his £13m move from Marseille.

United legend Chris Waddle backed the youngster - who has been compared with Franck Ribery - to be "top class", and Thauvin hopes to prove him right.

"I'd like to thank Chris Waddle for that nice compliment," he is quoted as saying by the Daily Star.

"It's very kind of him. I hope to be one of the best players in the world. I need to make sure I work hard to achieve that goal.

"I'm still a very young player with lots of years ahead of me. As for those Ribery or Platini comparisons, ask me that question at the end of my career."

Thauvin could make his debut in this afternoon's trip to Manchester United.