1
The Magpies fought off competition from a host of European sides to secure the signature of the Dutchman, who penned a five-year contract with the club having won the Ligue 1 title and the Trophée des Champions during his two seasons in France.
Botman graduated from the famed Academy set-up at Ajax before – following a loan spell with Heerenveen – he joined Lille, where he played in the Champions League and Europa League. He has captained the Netherlands at under-21 level and has received a number of call-ups to the senior squad.
He enjoyed a fine first season on Tyneside in 2022/23, establishing himself at the heart of United’s defence and helping Eddie Howe’s side reach the Carabao Cup final and qualify for the Champions League with a fourth-placed finish in the Premier League. The following season was tougher for the young stopper as a knee injury curtailed his progress, but he remains a crucial part of the Magpies’ backline.