Duncan Castles has been speaking on The Transfer Window podcast about Newcastle United’s reported interest in Sven Botman.
It would make a lot of logical sense for Newcastle to ensure that the defence is heavily improved come January given they have the second-worst defensive record at the back, only worsened by Norwich City.
How many players do Newcastle need to sign?
Five or less?
More than five?
Craig Hope has claimed that a move for Tottenham Hotspur’s Joe Rodon is of interest, but there have also been links to players on the continent, with David Ornstein reporting that Sven Botman is a target for the new owners – and he would be a player the club could build around for the future as he’s just 21 years old.
Castles has been speaking about Newcastle’s interest in Botman.
“My information is Lille, because of their desperation to create income in this window, might sell Botman and for as little as €25 million. There are definitely discussions with the players’ representatives.
“The deal has not been done. I’m told it’s a possibility, but it’s not a straightforward move. When it comes out that Botman is likely available for €25 million, the chances are that a club in a better league position will get interested in that deal and come in and compete with Newcastle.
“Then they get into the question mark of: can you convince a player of Botman’s quality – who would be a great addition to the defence – to come to Newcastle with money and the promise of something good down the line, rather than go to a more established club immediately without having to worry about what’s going to happen with Newcastle over the next half-season.”
TIF Thoughts on Newcastle’s interest in Botman…
The Dutch defender was linked with a deadline day move to Wolves over the summer, but with nothing materialising, he has been left to play for Lille in Ligue 1 this campaign, which has been a fall from grace as the current champions are lingering in mid-table.
Given that Newcastle have not signed a centre-back since 2018, they certainly need that area to be freshened up, and if they could tempt a league-winning defender to join them in a relegation battle, it would be huge for the club and a statement that they can attract some of the brightest stars.
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