#INSERT type:image caption:Shola Ameobi played for Alan Pardew during the manager's time at Newcastle. END#
Crystal Palace have signed former Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi on a deal until the end of the season.
ESPN FC revealed on Wednesday that Palace, managed by ex-Newcastle boss Alan Pardew, were favourites to secure his signature despite competition from both West Bromwich Albion and QPR.
"I have always liked Shola and he was always fantastic for me at Newcastle, so it is great to add him to the striking options we already have at the club," Palace boss Pardew said after being reunited with the 33-year-old forward.
Ameobi, who will compete for a starting place with Marouane Chamakh, Frazier Campbell, Glenn Murray and Yaya Sanogo, has been without a club for the first half of this season after Pardew allowed him to leave Newcastle in the summer.
Meanwhile, the Eagles boss also confirmed that the south London club are close to signing full-back Pape Souare from Lille.
Sources have told ESPN FC that Pardew made efforts to sign Swansea full-back Neil Taylor, but saw two bids for the 25-year-old Wales international turned down.