Sven Botman has been at the top of Newcastle’s transfer target list for some time. However, as it seemed to have gotten the Dutchman’s signature, Arsenal would have decided to suspend a play for the central defender.
Despite spending a lot on defenders in January, the Magpies don’t seem to be happy with their bottom line for next season. The arrival of Matt Targett on loan – now permanently signed – Dan Burn and Kieran Tripper solved the defensive problems at St James’ Park in the short term, although Botman would be a long-term investment.
The 22-year-old has impressed at Lille this season and Eddie Howe’s team tried to bring him up earlier this year, but a deal never materialized. But according to La Repubblica, he will lose, as he has accepted a five-year contract with AC Milan.
But they also report that Arsenal and Manchester United have also been in talks recently about Botman, and it remains to be seen if any of the Premier League teams will act in this direction. Newcastle will certainly be harmed if the Netherlands under-21s move to either side, given that Lille would have accepted an offer from them, but it is the player who has turned them down.
Paolo Maldini of Milan is believed to be an important factor in Botman opting for the Serie A suit instead of the Toon Army. It remains to be seen who the Magpies will turn their attention to, they were previously linked with England international James Tarkwoski, whose contract has expired in Burnley.
However, it is reported that it will be announced as the first Everton signing in the window. Maxs Lacroix of Wolfsburg and Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol have also been linked.