Sven Botman has given his version of events after his transfer from Lille proved to be one of the biggest dramas of the summer window.
For months AC Milan were claiming victory in the chase for the Dutchman but he has now insisted that his £34million move to the Premier League boiled down just one choice - and that proved to be Newcastle United. The 22-year-old also says that he would have been open to a switch to St James' Park last January but Lille were not prepared to sell while they remained in European contention.
Botman could only sit back and watch the speculation from Italy unfold but after finally being declared a Newcastle player he is simply looking forward to what lies ahead. Speaking from Newcastle's mini tour of Europe, Botman said: "I read a lot in the newspaper that said ‘where is he going, Newcastle or Milan?’ When I was in the season with Lille, I was just playing and thinking it will come later. In the meantime, the clubs discussed with Lille as well and after the season, I just wanted Newcastle. That was the choice."
