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Newcastle United may have hoped to cash in on Odysseas Vlachodimos this summer, but the goalkeeper has made it clear his own priority never changed. The Magpies agreed to send the Greece international back to Sevilla on another loan after his impressive spell in Spain last season, despite there being hope at St James’ Park that his strong performances could increase his value ahead of a permanent sale. According to Estadio Deportivo, Newcastle would have preferred to take advantage of that renewed interest in the 32-year-old. Instead, Vlachodimos has admitted there was only ever one destination on his mind. “I always wanted to return” Odysseas Vlachodimos used his first interview after rejoining Sevilla to explain that he never hesitated when the chance to return arrived. “I had no doubts about returning, I always wanted to. I felt really good last season, my family too. It was a goal to come back, I really wanted that. Returning has been very easy, I’m very happy.” “I’m delighted both clubs reached an agreement and I’m very happy to be here, to join the team quickly, which is very important. I’ve received a great welcome again.” While Newcastle were open to using his successful loan as a chance to secure a transfer fee, the goalkeeper was focused on getting back to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán as quickly as possible. Looking beyond Newcastle already Odysseas Vlachodimos is only back at Sevilla on loan, with his Newcastle contract still running until 2028, but he is already speaking as though he hopes his stay in Spain becomes permanent. “For me, Sevilla is the best club to stay at for a long time. My family and I are very happy here. The most important thing is taking this club back where it belongs.” “These fans, this stadium… they deserve to be back there. It’s a challenge to do better than last year.” The former Benfica goalkeeper also said he wants to improve on last season individually while helping Sevilla enjoy a much calmer campaign after their fight against relegation. His comments are unlikely to surprise Newcastle, who have never managed to establish him as part of the club’s plans. But they do underline one thing – if there was any doubt about where Vlachodimos sees his future, his latest interview has effectively removed it.