The 22-year-old spent 18 months at St. James' Park, but wasn't offered a new deal this summer and has now linked up with the County Antrim-based outfit, subject to international clearance.

Born in Germany to Ghanaian parents, Westendorf moved to England at the age of 13 and joined the Magpies after a successful trial after impressing with non-league Barking.

Larne won the title for the first time in their history last term, and will appear in the qualifying stages of the Champions League as a result. They take on HJK Helsinki over two legs later this month.

Westendorf told his new club's official website: "It feels great to be here and I'm delighted to have got everything sorted and sign.

"I had a good time at Newcastle, gaining a lot of experience training with the first team and I want to push myself now in men's football, so that's a big thing for me.

"Everyone dreams of playing in the Champions League. It's a big thing for the club and I'm delighted to be a big part of it against Helsinki.

"I had offers from elsewhere, but the offer was there to come here and have a look and I'm glad I did because I knew I wanted to be a part of it."

Should Larne overcome their Finnish opponents, Norwegian champions Molde FK will await in the second qualifying round. If they are knocked out, they would drop into the Europa League qualifying phase second round.

Larne manager Tiernan Lynch added: "We are delighted to add Isaac to our squad.

"He has been around for the last couple of weeks and that has given us both the chance to have a proper look at one another and we were as keen to bring him here as he was to join the club.

"He's coming in from a top environment in England and he's now ready to push himself to be a success in the men's game and we will work with him to help him achieve it."