Sven Botman has already come through the ranks at Ajax, won a title with Lille, represented his country at underage level and played in the Champions League. Moving to Newcastle United, however, is a realisation of a dream: to play in the Premier League.
Was it any wonder that the Dutchman made sure his family, friends and representatives were all with him as he posed for photographs pitchside at St James' Park on Monday after signing a five-year deal? If Botman had his way, the centre-back would have completed his big-money move even sooner.
Although Lille refused to sell Botman in January, of course, it was telling that the 22-year-old's levels did not drop - nor did he throw his toys out of the pram after a heart to heart with manager Jocelyn Gourvennec, who was once on Newcastle's radar himself.
