The ‘rare’ recruitment meeting that’s led to history-making moment at Newcastle United

It’s become a little more clear why Newcastle United refused to give up on Sven Botman, despite rival interest from Italian giants AC Milan.

According to The Athletic, every single member of the club’s recruitment team gave their ‘unanimous approval’ to pursue a deal for the 22-year-old, with Eddie Howe, Steve Nickson, Dan Ashworth, Amanda Staveley and Jamie Reuben all convinced he was the man we must sign.

The same piece states that Steve Nickson – our chief scout – was an admirer during Mike Ashley’s time in charge, yet a move for the Dutchman was never possible due to the limited budget on offer and lack of appeal for a player of his quality. Let’s be honest, one of Europe’s most sought after centre-backs wasn’t joining Steve Bruce and a relegation battled club in desperate need of new direction!

However, with Botman identified as our first major target following the Saudi-backed takeover and Eddie Howe a huge fan, the 6ft 5′ giant has now become the most expensive defender the club have ever signed.

The fact every member of the club’s recruitment team pushed for him to be our top defensive target speaks volumes, with The Telegraph’s Luke Edwads also reporting that it’s incredibly ‘rare’ all parties agree in such discussions.

Edwards states that Howe “spent hours” watching him in action, doing his own scouting missions after Nickson’s initial recommendation.

Six months on, we’ve finally got our man and seem confident he’ll be well worth the wait!

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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