Sven Botman says ‘talks are underway’ as Newcastle interest confirmed and deal hope laid bare

Sven Botman has confirmed Newcastle transfer interest and hopes that he can start pre-season having sealed his exit from Lille.

The Lille defender has impressed since his summer 2020 move from Ajax, subsequently attracting interest from elsewhere. Newcastle were among those looking to sign him in January, but a deal never materialised.

AC Milan consequently took up the mantle and it has looked like they are the frontrunners for his signature.

However, their deal for Botman is not yet over the line and so Newcastle still have hope of adding him to their back line.

Milan’s transfer progress has recently stalled amid a financial takeover. However, they are back in the mix after confirmation of new investment from RedBird Capital on Wednesday.

Nevertheless, Botman does not want to wait forever to take the step up in his career which he desires. He has indeed told Algemeen Dagblad that he wants to seal a move away ahead of pre-season.

Asked if he has played his last game for Lille, the Dutchman said: “I don’t know, but I think so. I intend to take a step.

“Talks are underway now. I won’t go into all of that, but it’s going well. I do hope that the transfer for the new season is completed. Preferably also for the pre-season, yes.”

And he revealed that Newcastle and AC Milan are onto him over a deal to bring him to either Serie A or the Premier League.

Botman reveals Newcastle transfer interest

“Those clubs are interested, yes. I can’t and won’t say much more about it,” Botman said.

“What I want is to take a nice step towards a nice competition. I am also looking forward to a new step.

“I am aware of what I want – that is not necessarily to that club or that competition. You weigh all kinds of things and then the total picture has to suit you. I must have a very good feeling about it.”

Botman played 37 Ligue 1 games in his debut season for Lille in 2020/21 as they clinched the French top flight title.

This term, Lille only finished 10th and Botman feels he is ready for a step up in his career.

Newcastle an ideal stepping stone

Botman may struggle to find game time at a top-six Premier League club.

Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham – the three most actively searching for new defenders – all have other targets in mind too.

Indeed, the likes of Alessandro Bastoni, Jurrien Timber, Jules Kounde and Pau Torres are all targets for the trio.

Newcastle and Tottenham on alert as Lille say Botman will leave

Newcastle and Tottenham will look for Sven Botman this summer as Lille hint player will leave

However, Botman would find an ideal fit with Newcastle. They may not be challenging for a top-four place or European football yet, but they certainly hope they are on the way there after their takeover.

Botman has emerged on the European radar at Lille and Newcastle could be the perfect next step to further cement his progress.