According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle will make another attempt to sign Sven Botman, after Lille rejected an opening bid worth €35m (£29m).
What’s the story?
Well, Newcastle certainly mean business in this January transfer window.
According to the Guardian, the Magpies are confident of sealing a £25m move for Kieran Trippier this week, as Botman is also targeted.
Romano believes Lille are desperate to keep the 21-year-old in France, and are holding firm despite their difficult financial situation.
The Italian adds that there is no chance of a loan deal with an obligation to buy, while AC Milan are also interested in signing the centre-back.
Botman is a key player for Lille – so far this season, the 9-cap Netherlands international has made 16 appearances in all competitions.
According to Jose Fonte, who has played alongside both Botman and Virgil van Dijk, the Newcastle target is the better footballer.
Newcastle must keep pushing for Sven Botman
It’s hugely encouraging to hear that Newcastle are set to make another bid, as it seems like it’s only a matter of time until Lille are forced to sell.
The Ligue 1 outfit have money issues, and as much as they’d like to keep Botman, the financial impacts of COVID-19 have hit clubs hard.
At the end of the day, football clubs are also businesses, and Lille will let the Dutchman go if they receive an irresistible offer – everyone has a price.
It seems as if the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) have money to burn, as they’re clearly ready to part with around £55m on Trippier and Botman.
If that’s a sign of things to come, this could be the most exciting month Newcastle fans have had for ages.
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