Newcastle United's deal in principle for Sven Botman is the Magpies statement signing so far this summer. Tipped to become one of the best in world football, the Dutch centre-half has a league title, domestic cup and Champions League experience under his belt at such a young age.
The 22-year-old, who has come through the Ajax youth academy, will arrive on Tyneside with the Magpies at the start of their journey towards competing for titles. Eddie Howe's defence was an area of the pitch that needed vast improvement prior to the January window and they Magpies recruitment team have wasted no time in addressing that.
The takeover at St James' Park has taken the Magpies back in time to the days of Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson, with big name signings linked at almost every opportunity. Of course, there are plenty of big money signings that have not worked out.
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But there's an illustrious list of centre-halves that Botman should look to emulate and surpass during his Newcastle career. Jonathan Woodgate and Philippe Albert are two who quickly spring to mind. Woodgate's stellar performances in a black and white shirt saw Real Madrid come calling while Albert's goal against Manchester United is a piece of black and white history.
Darren Peacock is another who helped the Magpies go close to their first Premier League title with the Entertainers, even if defending wasn't a strong point of Keegan's side. Fabricio Coloccini is a modern centre-half that became fan favourite despite a rough start on Tyneside.
He helped captain the Magpies in their Europa League campaign, just one year after winning the Championship title. Local boy Dan Burn is another who has led by example since arriving from Brighton in January.
The Blyth-born centre-back helped shore up the back line as Howe's Magpies propelled themselves towards mid-table and Premier League safety. Botman is expected to help lift Newcastle to the next level with European football on the agenda.
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