After completing his move from Lille, Sven Botman hopes to assist Newcastle United in their goal of “getting to the top.”
Newcastle confirmed earlier this week that a deal had been reached with Lille to sign the central defender for a rumoured upfront fee of £31.8 million (€37 million).
The deal was finalized on Friday, after the ambitious Premier League club fended off interest from a number of other clubs, including Serie A winners Milan.
Botman, a Netherlands Under-21 international, becomes Newcastle’s third signing of the window, following the permanent signings of Matt Targett and Nick Pope.
Eddie Howe’s team is still linked with a number of other players, and Botman is certain he made the correct decision by heading to St James’ Park.
“I’m incredibly excited – ecstatic – and I can’t wait to start this new adventure,” Botman told Newcastle’s official website after signing a five-year contract.
“Signing a contract with Newcastle United is the finest day of my life.” It’s a day I’ve been looking forward to for a long time.
“Newcastle had a long-term goal to reach the top, for both myself and the club, and they play in the Premier League, which is Europe’s greatest league.”
“The entire bundle is flawless. “I’m excited to meet the fans as well as my new teammates.”
Newcastle are apparently willing to spend up to £35 million for Botman, making him their third-most expensive signing after Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton (both £40 million).
Botman won the Ligue 1 title with Lille after coming up through Ajax’s junior system without making a competitive senior appearance.
“I’m overjoyed that Sven is joining us. He is technically and physically extremely good, and he has a tremendous mentality,” Newcastle manager Howe remarked.
“At 22, he already has significant top-level experience, but he is at an ideal age to develop with our squad.”
“I’m excited to get to work with him and watch him with his new teammates.”
On August 6, Newcastle will kick off their 2022-23 Premier League season at home against newly promoted Nottingham Forest.
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