After losing Alexander Isak this past summer, a player who we had hoped to keep for at least a couple more years on Tyneside, we must learn from that and lock down our biggest stars before more rivals come calling.
And that’s why we’ll no doubt hear of new sporting director Ross Wilson working hard behind the scenes to ensure Eddie Howe has the best talent at his disposal across all four competitions, both for this season and beyond.
Thankfully, the extension of Sandro Tonali’s deal was made during the Italian’s 10-month ban, but there’s still plenty of big stars like Tino Livramento eyeing an improved deal.
And for one key player in particular, he’s thought to be attracting interest from within the Premier League following his return to form this season…
Botman attracts Premier League interest
According to The Chronicle, Liverpool and Chelsea have Sven Botman on their radar, with both clubs keen to bolster their centre-back options in 2026.
Liverpool are believed to be long-term admirers of Botman, who was positively scored by their data-led search for potential replacements for Virgil Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.
Arne Slot is also said to be a fan of his compatriot, viewing him as a “cool customer”, and will be on the lookout for a calm, composed defender if they can’t tie up a deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi next year.
Chelsea have also been described as big fans of the Dutchman, but considering the sheer number of defensive options they currently have on their books, you would imagine a move to Stamford Bridge may not be in Botman’s best interests if he wants to be a guaranteed starter.
New deal update
Currently, Botman’s current deal comes to an end in 2027, but the 25-year-old is thought to be ‘open’ to a new deal and extending his stay.
Though sources in the Netherlands hint that discussions are yet to properly take place, any salary increase would likely see Botman move from his current £90,000 per-week wages up to around the £150,000 mark, in line with some of our higher earners like Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
Hopefully this is enough to tempt the big man, who is not only developing a strong partnership with Malick Thiaw, but playing regularly; two things that give him a strong chance of finally making the Dutch National Team in the months ahead.
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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.
