David Rozehnal

Newcastle United defender David Rozehnal has joined Lazio on loan for the rest of the season.

The Czech Republic international joined the Magpies in a £2.9million transfer from Paris Saint Germain last summer.

He has made 21 appearances in the Barclays Premier League, but is now on his way to Serie A with a view to a permanent move.

Rozehnal has been playing in midfield since Kevin Keegan returned as manager, and his agent Pavel Zika admits the 27-year-old wants to revert to a defensive role.

"David Rozehnal joined Newcastle only last summer, but has not been playing in his position in defence," Zika said.

"The Lazio offer came shortly before the transfer deadline but we managed to finish the deal."

Lazio have been busy raiding the Barclays Premier League, having brought in Manchester City duo Rolando Bianchi and Ousmane Dabo during the transfer window.