Reports in Italy suggest Newcastle won’t be competing with AC Milan to sign Sven Botman anymore.
The Magpies have been battling with Italian giants all summer for the defender’s signature, with neither side able to complete a deal.
Botman remains a Lille player, but that surely won’t be the case by the time the transfer window slams shut.
However, Tuttosport don’t think he’s heading to Milan.
AC Milan ‘give up’ trying to sign Sven Botman
According to Tuttosport, AC Milan have given up on trying to sign Botman from Lille this summer.
They state that this is because of the club’s limited budget. Defence is no longer seen as a priority, so Stefano Pioli and Paolo Maldini have pulled the plug on landing the 22-year-old.
Their priority now is to sign Portuguese midfielder Renato Sanches, who also plays for Lille interestingly.
Big boost for Newcastle
If the word coming out of Italy is true then Newcastle’s decision makers will be buzzing. They could have a clear run at signing the player they’ve wanted since January. According to the Chronicle, Amanda Staveley is keen to bring the Dutchman to Tyneside.
Botman was the club’s main defensive target at the start of the year, but an agreement couldn’t be reached.
AC Milan’s involvement has complicated matters this summer, with the defender seemingly keen on a a move to the Serie A champions. That’s fair enough – they’re one of the biggest clubs in the world.
However, it’s also been reported that he would be open to a move to St James’ Park. If Milan are out of the race, he might not have much choice – unless he decides to stay with Lille.
The Magpies had agreed a price of £30million with the French side, only for Lille to move the goalposts and increase their demands.
But with no other teams in the race, can Lille afford to hope for a bidding war?
Hopefully what’s being reported in Italy is true and Milan no longer want to sign Botman.
Howe has been desperate to add him to his squad for months, and his wish could soon become Dan Ashworth’s command.
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