Sven Botman will be joining a new club this summer, but whether it’s Newcastle or AC Milan remains to be seen.
While other teams have been tentatively linked, it appears to be a straight fight between Eddie Howe’s side and the champions of Italy.
For a long time it looked like AC Milan were leading the race, but now reports appear to suggest that the Magpies have the edge.
It was even reported by the Northern Echo that Lille have accepted a £30million bid from Newcastle for the 22-year-old. They added on Thursday that Milan were yet to submit a formal offer.
If a fee is agreed, half the battle is won. But where does the player stand on a move to St James’ Park?
Sven Botman is open to joining Newcastle this summer
According to the Express, Botman would like to continue playing in the Champions League. He’d be able to do that at AC Milan. It wouldn’t be possible at Newcastle next season, although the new owners do have ambitions of eventually taking the club back into Europe’s elite competition.
Despite no Champions League football, Botman is reportedly ‘open-minded’ about joining the Magpies.
That’s excellent news, and disputes what has been reported in Italy. TMW believe he isn’t fully convinced about joining Newcastle.
This will likely come down to money. If Milan can’t submit an acceptable offer Botman then they’ve got no chance. That will give us a clean run at the defender.
However, if we both have bids accepted then it will be up to the player. Each respective side will have to try and convince him that their club is best for him.
If that’s what it comes down to, a move to Milan might be favourite. But the fact that Botman is reportedly open to joining Newcastle and missing out on UCL football certainly gives us a chance.