Newcastle United have returned with a fresh bid for the transfer of Sven Botman, but LOSC Lille have just rebuffed Eddie Howe’s advances for a third time, according to Calciomercato.
The Magpies are adamant they will strengthen the St James’ Park backline before Monday night’s deadline. Their recent victory at Leeds United marked just the Toon’s second clean sheet in the Premier League this season. They have also conceded 43 goals over 21 games.
Only Norwich City, who have played a game more than Newcastle, have shipped more with 45 conceded in 22 games. Yet the Canaries are also a point better off in 17th than the Toon to sit outside the relegation zone. The situation vibrantly highlights Howe’s need for deals.
But Lille are also adamant that Botman will not leave Ligue 1 for Newcastle in the January transfer window. The Magpies attempted one last swoop for the Dutch enforcer in recent hours and offered €40m (£33.5m) before add-ons. But Les Dogues waved away the bid.
Botman will now remain at the Stade Pierre Mauroy until at least the summer. The 22-year-old has also never pushed to join Howe’s side as he is looking to join AC Milan instead. The centre-back wants to wear the Rossoneri jersey and will be subject to their interest in June.
Lille reject third Newcastle bid for Botman transfer
Lille have now rejected Newcastle three times with formal offers for Botman’s transfer. Sky Sports reported earlier this month that the Toon saw a second bid of £29.5m fall short. Les Dogues were chasing nearer to £35m at the time and again refused to sell on deadline day.
The Ligue 1 side’s latest refusal could mark the end of the Magpies’ interest in Botman, too. Howe may struggle to convince him to join at the end of the season even if the Toon avoid relegation if Milan bid. So the centre-half lauded by his agent may never move to Tyneside.
“The boy is having an exponential growth,” Francesco Miniero, director of Botman’s agency in Italy told Calciomercato.it earlier this month. “When I saw him in Holland, I saw that the difference with the peers was very noticeable. I was shocked.
“Sven is a golden boy. I happen to work with many young people and at this age they often don’t feel ready, while he has also shown an extraordinary courage. Every time I see him play, I see continuous improvements. I hope he can reach a great club.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
