Newcastle United confirm Sven Botman signing as transfer is finalised in full

Sven Botman is now officially a Newcastle United player.

The Magpies announced on Tuesday they had agreed a fee in principle with Lille to sign the Netherlands under-21s centre-back.

It came after the 22-year-old travelled to Tyneside on Monday to undergo his medical and finalise a move on his side.

Although Botman posed for pictures at St James’ Park on the same day, United have had to wait before unveiling him as the club’s third senior summer signing.

It is understood the delay was down to Lille preferring to announce the transfer on July 1, so the rumoured £35milllion will be published as a profit by the Ligue 1 outfit in the next financial year’s accounts rather than this year’s.

On Friday evening however, the Magpies finally got the go ahead to announce Botman.

Eddie Howe’s side have saw off competition from Italian champions AC Milan to seal his highly-rated signature, which they have chased since January.

What Sven Botman said

Botman said: ““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.”

What Eddie Howe said

Howe said: “I’m delighted Sven is joining us. He is technically very good, physically very good and has a great attitude.

“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.”