Jonathan Woodgate has claimed that Sven Botman is a ‘top player’ and if Newcastle United sign him, then he would ‘strengthen their defensive line’, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
The former England defender added that, even before Botman could possibly be signed up by the Magpies, Eddie Howe and Jason Tindal have already ‘improved’ the club’s previously leaky defence.
Before Howe could replace Steve Bruce in the St James’ Park dugout, the club were all over the place, unable to win, no style of play, defence all over the shop and playing pretty abject football.
But, during the second half of the campaign, Howe and his coaching staff transformed the side, with the help of January signings Dan Burn, Kieran Trippier and Matt Targett.
Botman was a name who could have joined them from Lille in the winter, but a move didn’t materialise, as Woodgate shared his thoughts on the 22-year-old joining in the summer.
“It really would strengthen their defensive line,” said Woodgate. “To be fair, since Eddie Howe and Jason Tindall have come in, they have improved that defensive line.
“The signing of Dan Burn, Trippier and Matt Targett at left-back. They really have improved. And Fabian Schar, who had a really great end to the season.
“Sven Botman would really up the ante. He’s a really good player. He’s a top player.”
WILL NEWCASTLE SIGN BOTMAN?
Newcastle didn’t get their man in January, but could a deal finally be concluded during this summer? Well, Serie A champions, AC Milan, are trying to make a last-minute offer for the player.
If Botman does arrive, then he will surely walk straight into Newcastle’s backline and possibly partner Burn at the back.
The boyhood Newcastle fan, who arrived from Brighton, had a great impact on the team and added much-needed solidity to the backline.
So, if Botman does come in, then it’s not Burn who will make way, but either way, Newcastle fans will finally see quality throughout their squad.
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