Newcastle handed killer blow as £27.5m target ‘desperate’ for move heads to Serie A

Newcastle will have to look elsewhere for a new centre-back this summer with AC Milan on the verge on agreeing a £27.5m deal for Sven Botman.

Eddie Howe wanted the Lille defender in January and made him their number one defensive target. The Magpies are understood to have made at least two bids, around the £30m, for the Dutchman. However, according to a report in the Telegraph, the Ligue 1 champions told Newcastle that the Holland Under-21 international was not for sale.

Newcastle though have not been perturbed and are ready to go after the 22-year-old again this summer. Howe has reportedly drawn up plans to try and lure the highly-rated defender to Newcastle.

But they have had rivals in Milan from the offset and the Rossoneri have taken the lead in proceedings.

Italian journalist Paolo Bargiggia has said that Botman is the Rossoneri’s No1 target in defence this summer.

Speaking to PianetaMilan, Bargiggia recently said Milan will do “everything” to sign Botman. And it seems they are nearly over the line with a deal.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Milan are working on a deal and are “really close” to finalising an agreement.

Botman ‘desperate’ for Newcastle transfer

Talks are at an “advanced” stage with Milan working hard on a financial agreement with the French side. Sky Italia say Milan will pay circa €33m.

Botman is said to be ready to give the go ahead for a move to Italy, leaving Newcastle to look elsewhere.

The latest development represents a major turn around, because Toon chief Amanda Staveley suggested Botman was “desperate” for a move to St James’ Park in January.

Sven Botman close to 5 year deal with AC Milan snubbing Tottenham and Newcastle

Sven Botman is close to agreeing a 5 year deal with AC Milan this summer ignoring interest from Premier League clubs

West Ham were also reported to be interested in Botman. The Northern Echo claimed David Moyes had made the Dutch under-21 international his prime objective.

What’s more, the London Stadium hierarchy were prepared to heavily back their manager in the market.

READ MORE: Newcastle transfer shortlist down to two Prem stars as Eddie Howe eyes reinforcements