You can tell we are moving closer to the January transfer window, as another new link has emerged today on potential incoming business at St James’ Park.
We shared news of our ‘interest’ in Club Brugge talent Aleksandar Stankovic earlier today, but another highly-rated midfielder is now being tipped to arrive on Tyneside in Kees Smit.
This comes via The Mail’s Craig Hope, who reveals that Newcastle are pushing to land the 19-year-old Dutchman ahead of a number of European giants.
Currently at AZ Alkmaar, the technical midfielder has drawn comparisons to former Man City star Kevin De Bruyne and has been watched by Barcelona, Real Madrid Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.
His contract expires in 2028 and Hope reports that a £20m fee may be enough to land the youngster, who has over 50 appearances for AZ and recently played in their Europa Conference League clash with Crystal Palace.
New sporting director Ross Wilson is eager to recruit some of Europe’s top talent with potential to improve under Eddie Howe, and it’s thought Newcastle are confident of beating rivals to a deal, with the offer of game time in the Premier League likely to appeal.
It’s not clear if this would be a January move or one we’ll pursue next summer, but with Joe Willock’s position in the squad under threat and Joelinton turning 30 next year, Howe may add some fresh legs to his three-man midfield.
Dutch boss Ronald Koeman recently compared Smit to Spanish sensation Pedri, having this to say on the AZ star:
“He has the awareness to receive in tight spaces and move the ball forward. That is something we value. The resemblance people see (with Pedri) is in how he positions himself and his decision-making under pressure.
“Big clubs follow players with these characteristics. That is normal. What is important is that he continues developing where he is, playing regularly.”
Crystal Palace are also thought to be admirers of Smit, who stands just over six foot tall and is now a regular in the Dutch Under-21 side.
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Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
