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Sven Botman is hoping to help Newcastle United in their goal to “get to the top” after finalising his move from Lille.
Newcastle confirmed earlier this week a deal, worth a reported upfront cost of £31.8million (€37m), had been reached with Lille to sign the central defender.
That transfer was made official on Friday, with the ambitious Premier League club seeing off interest from a number of other teams, including Serie A champions Milan.
Netherlands Under-21 international Botman becomes Newcastle’s third signing of the window following the permanent capture of Matt Targett and the arrival of Nick Pope.
Eddie Howe’s side continue to be linked with an array of other players, and Botman is confident he has made the right choice in moving to St James’ Park.
“I’m really happy – delighted – and I can’t wait to start this new adventure,” Botman, who penned a five-year contract, told Newcastle’s official website.
“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.”
Newcastle may reportedly pay up to £35m for Botman, which would make him their third-most expensive signing behind Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton (both £40m).
Botman won the Ligue 1 title during his two years with Lille, having previously emerged through Ajax’s youth system without making a competitive senior appearance.
“I’m delighted Sven is joining us. He is technically very good, physically very good and has a great attitude,” Newcastle boss Howe added.
“At 22, he already has solid experience at the top level but he is at a great age to grow with this team.
“I am looking forward to getting to work with him and seeing him with his new team-mates.”
Newcastle begin their 2022-23 Premier League season at home against newly promoted Nottingham Forest on August 6.
