Newcastle United’s summer transfer plans are not going to be massively impacted by the injury to Sven Botman.
That is according to HITC Football insider Graeme Bailey, who was spoke to Geordie Boot Boys following the news that Sven Botman is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
It was confirmed on Wednesday that Botman is set to undergo surgery after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury during the FA Cup defeat to Manchester City. Eddie Howe initially thought it was just a knock, but it has proven to be much worse than that.
The 24-year-old is now going to be missing for between six and nine months, but has vowed to come back a better player.
But with Botman set for an extended spell on the sidelines, Newcastle will be looking for a replacement. However, the injury is not going to massively hinder the Magpies’ transfer plans.
Sven Botman injury does not massively change Newcastle’s transfer plans
HITC Sport’s Graeme Bailey has spoke to Geordie Boot Boys about the Botman situation, and shared what he has been told about Newcastle’s transfer plans following news of the injury.
“I spoke to people around Newcastle – obviously it’s devastating for the player, not just Newcastle themselves,” he said.
“But emphasising it does not particularly change their thinking because they were always going for a centre-back anyway. They always wanted one, so I don’t think this massively changes anything. Obviously it heightens their need for one, that’s for sure. It really focusses the attention for the Newcastle scouting team, that was already looking at a few centre-backs.”
Newcastle were always in the market for a centre-back
As Bailey says, Newcastle United were planning to sign a centre-back even before Botman suffered this horrific injury. All it has done is sharpened minds and perhaps made it even more of a priority.
But it was always on the agenda for the Magpies, as well as a new attacker.
There is going to be a bit of a rebuild at Newcastle this summer, and that will include in defence. Eddie Howe will want the club to bring in someone who can be Botman’s long-term partner at St James’ Park, although they may initially be seen as his replacement.
Fabian Schar can play as Newcastle’s left-sided centre-back
Initially, Newcastle will have been looking for a right-sided centre-back to play alongside Botman. But there will be a fear that his injury may force Toon officials to bring in another left-sider.
However, the presence of Fabian Schar may ensure that Newcastle can stick to their initial transfer plans. While he is right-footed and primarily plays on that side, he is also capable of operating on the left.
The Switzerland international did it during Botman’s first knee injury this season, and really impressed Howe with his performances on what is his weaker side.
That should give Newcastle some comfort and allow them to bring in the centre-back they want long-term this summer, rather than opt for a short-term option to compensate for Botman’s absence.
Regardless, a centre-back will arrive at St James’ Park this summer.
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