Newcastle United ‘The Most Serious’ – Dutchman Regrets Missed Move

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Paul Kane/Getty Images Former Dutch defender Patrick Zwaanswijk has admitted he still regrets missing out on a move to Newcastle United, revealing Liverpool and Aston Villa were also keen on signing him. The now-retired centre-back progressed through the ranks at Ajax’s youth academy before securing a move to Utrecht, where he made his Eredivisie debut at 24 and went on to spend six years, making 182 appearances.

However, Zwaanswijk recalled attracting interest from Liverpool and Aston Villa early in his career, with the Magpies emerging as the most persistent suitors, having tracked him on multiple occasions at Utrecht and tabled a firm offer to secure his services. He suggested the move ultimately fell through due to issues behind the scenes, with his agent Piet Buter failing to deliver and maintaining ties too close to Utrecht.

Club Years FC Utrecht 1998-2004 Oita Trinita 2004-2005 NAC Breda 2005-2010 Central Coast Mariners 2010-2013 Patrick Zwaanswijk’s career history Zwaanswijk told Dutch daily De Telegraaf: “Liverpool and Aston Villa showed interest, but Newcastle United, who had come to scout at the club three times, were the most serious and made a substantial offer. “Let me put it this way: he was too friendly with FC Utrecht, where he later became technical director.