Newcastle United may well be missing out on a huge transfer opportunity given some new comments from Lille defender Sven Botman.
The defender has given an interview with The Athletic and spoken about a number of things, including his teammate Boubakary Soumare.
Soumare is a player Newcastle have had a long-standing interest in. BBC Sport reported the Magpies tried and failed to sign him in January 2020 for £35 million.
Soumare remained with Lille beyond the summer window, and is now set to become a Ligue 1 champion.
He has been key to their title push this term, and Botman has sang the Frenchman’s praises.
He said: “If I’m honest, I think Soumare is one of the most talented players I have ever played with.
“He is similar to Ryan Gravenberch at Ajax but Soumare is more physical and has a lot of quality. I’m sure he is going to be a really top player.”
According to Transfermarkt, Soumare’s contract expires in the summer of 2022, meaning he could well depart this summer.
Newcastle may have left it too late
Botman’s verdict only reinforces the idea that Soumare is a quality player who could make a real difference to Newcastle.
But Fabrizio Romano has reported that Leicester City have won the race for the talented 22-year-old, with the Daily Mail claiming a £20 million deal is in place.
That in itself tells you all you need to know about Soumare’s ability and potential.
The Foxes’ recruitment has been absolutely excellent in recent years, and Newcastle could be in line for some uncomfortable viewing if he does indeed head for the King Power Stadium this summer.
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