Newcastle are reportedly edging closer to a deal to sign Sven Botman from Lille.
That’s according to the Telegraph, who claim the Magpies are close to a breakthrough. The report adds that confidence is growing that Botman will swap Ligue 1 for the Premier League and head to Newcastle.
That would be a huge relief for the Toon owners, who have been chasing the 22-year-old for six months now.
The Dutchman was first linked with a move to Newcastle last December, then the club attempted to sign him in January.
Newcastle offered £30million, but it was rejected by Lille. They reportedly wanted £46million, which led to Eddie Howe looking elsewhere and bringing in Dan Burn.
But the Magpies are back in the mix for Botman, and it appears he won’t cost as much as he would have in January.
Sven Botman likely to cost £30million this summer
Newcastle are competing with AC Milan to sign Botman, with both sides desperate to bring in the talented centre-back.
The Telegraph’s report suggests that Newcastle have the edge in this race, but that could all change.
However, a price does seem to be set. The Telegraph state that Botman will likely cost around £30million this summer. The Northern Echo back up these claims, stating that Newcastle’s £30million offer has been accepted.
That’s a lot less than his asking price in January, which highlights the difference between each transfer window.
Botman was worth more in the winter. Lille had less time to find a replacement, while they were still competing in the Champions League.
Fast forward a few months and Lille have plenty of time to land a new defender. They also finished 10th in Ligue 1, meaning no European football next season.
It will be a brilliant deal if Newcastle can sign Botman for around £30million. It would make him the second most expensive signing since the change of ownership behind Bruno Guimaraes.
If he’s half as good as the Brazilian then he’ll be a sound investment. Botman can be for the present and the future. He’s already played at a really high level, but has scope to get better at the age of 22. He could be a mainstay in the Newcastle defence for 10 years.
Given how persistent Newcastle have been, Howe and co are clearly desperate to sign Botman. Hopefully he does arrive, and the club’s desire pays off.
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