Newcastle United are reportedly inching closer to the capture of LOSC Lille’s defensive stalwart Sven Botman.
One of Newcastle United’s long-time ambitions in the market could soon become a reality as the club close in on the capture of Sven Botman, reports Daily Telegraph. The Magpies are close to reaching an agreement with LOSC Lille over the defender’s move to St. James’ Park ahead of the new season.
Newcastle United and LOSC Lille have been negotiating for months over the deal to sign Botman. But the club’s complicated financial structure, coupled with sustained competition from AC Milan had made the job quite difficult for the Premier League side.
Although the race to sign Botman is still not over yet, Newcastle United are confident of reaching a deal. The whole operation is expected to cost around £30 million, though the Magpies only want to pay a fraction of the sum upfront and the rest in staggered installments.
Botman has been on the radar of Newcastle ever since the completion of their lucrative takeover. One of the rising stars in Ligue 1 last season, the Dutchman has been hailed as the ideal man to steer the Newcastle United backline in the years to come, with coach Eddie Howe rating him highly particularly due to his imposing physique and no-nonsense defensive mentality.
Botman has backed up his quality with his performances too. His partnership with Jose Fonte played a key role in handing Lille the Ligue 1 title during the 2020/21 campaign. He was equally important this past season, even though Lille were unable to replicate their success.
After two successful years at Lille, it is time for the Dutchman to join a more ambitious team. AC Milan were one of the clubs hot on his heels throughout the year so far, with the Rossoneri identifying him as an ideal long-term replacement for Alessandro Bastoni.
Botman, though, appears to be on the verge of joining Newcastle United. The former Ajax starlet could prove to be an ideal upgrade over Dan Burn. His dogged defensive mentality, coupled with his athleticism and aggression could go a long way in breathing new life to the Newcastle United backline.
Botman might not be the only Ligue 1 talent joining Newcastle this summer. The Magpies have been closely linked with a move for Reims’ Hugo Ekitike as well, although the deal to sign the French attacker is much more complicated due to the club’s insistence on paying the transfer fee through staggered instalments.