'I hope': 22-year-old says he still wants to be at Newcastle until 2026

By Ben Evans

In an interview with Shields Gazette, Sven Botman has said he wants to be playing in Europe for Newcastle in four years’ time.

The Dutch defender has already impressed manager Eddie Howe in pre-season, and it was seen as a real coup for Newcastle to beat Italian champions AC Milan to secure Botman’s signature.

When asked where he hoped to be in three or four-years’ time, Botman said:

“I’m here at Newcastle, so I hope in three or four years I’m playing in Europe with Newcastle – and we’re a club who people always believe can finish in the top six.”

“A lot needs to be done by myself and the club, but, with time, we’ll get there.”

Botman’s ambition is shared by the club, with Newcastle linked with moves for plenty of attacking options alongside the defensive reinforcements they’ve already made.

The likes of Armando Broja, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Timo Werner have all been touted as potential future signings.

Botman wants to succeed at Newcastle, but manage expectations

The 22-year-old defender was also asked about the possibility of Newcastle challenging for a spot in the Champions League and winning trophies this season, but the Dutchman thinks this is a step too far:

“I think it isn’t possible to do it (play Champions League football) one season, but, in steps, we’ll get there.”

Botman is one of the only players with prior Champions League experience in the Newcastle squad, having five appearances in the competition for Lille last season.

And although he won’t be appearing in any European competitions with his new club this season, Botman and his teammates will be aiming to break into the Premier League’s top six very soon.

Breaking into the European spots will be easier said that done though, with Spurs and Arsenal both recruiting heavily this summer to consolidate their continental ambitions.

Fellow outsiders Aston Villa have also invested in their squad to challenge the top sides, and will be hoping to slip under the radar while others concentrate on Newcastle’s new owners and their spending habits.