Sven Botman is FINALLY a Newcastle United player!
In a statement on NUFC.co.uk, the club have confirmed that the former Ajax centre-back has signed a five-year deal at St James’ Park, with the Dutchman describing this as the “best day of my life.”
The fee is described as ‘undisclosed’, however reports suggest we have paid a fee in the region of £35m for the 22-year-old – making him the most expensive defender the club has ever signed.
Botman is a Dutch U21 international who helped Lille lift the Ligue 1 title the season before last. He stands 6ft 4′ tall and arrives as one of Europe’s most highly-rated defenders, with us beating off competition from AC Milan to secure his signature.
Here’s the official announcement video released by the club, followed by Botman’s first words after putting pen to paper:
“I’m really happy – delighted – and I can’t wait to start this new adventure.
“This is the best day of my life, to sign a contract with Newcastle United.
“It’s a day I’ve worked hard for and I’m very excited.
“Newcastle had a long-term plan to get to the top, for both me and for the club, and they play in the Premier League which is the best league in Europe.
“The whole package is just perfect.
“I’m looking forward now to meeting the fans and also my new team-mates.”
So, Botman begins, with the big man becoming our third signing of the summer following moves for Matt Targett and Nick Pope, taking our spending up to just shy of £60m.
Welcome to the club, Sven!
