New signing Aidan Guerra says Newcastle should be aiming for nothing less than a top-eight finish next season.

Guerra, who featured in four play-off campaigns and won a grand final during his eight years with the Roosters, is approaching his three-year deal with the Knights with the same mindset and sense of expectation.

New recruits: Kalyn Ponga and Aidan Guerra are thrilled to be at Newcastle. Credit:Simone De Peak

"We'll be hoping to be there in September," Guerra said. "There's no two ways about it. Every team starts the off-season with the same goal, and that's to be in the top eight, and then be in the top four, and then come first eventually.

"I think with the squad that's here, it's possible. We will certainly be working towards being there in September in 2018."