Sven Botman was linked with a move to Newcastle in January but an agreement couldn’t be reached, however, reports suggest that a deal could still be on the cards in the summer.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke told GiveMeSport that Botman ‘didn’t rule out a move’ to Tyneside in the future – which could mean that hopes of a deal are far from dead.
With Botman previously speaking about the project at Newcastle, it appears that he has some interest in the club and the moves that they are making in terms of progressing forward.
He told Dutch outlet Ziggo Sport (via Daily Star): “Everyone says about Newcastle – it’s all about money.
“But it’s a very nice project, if you look at where Man City and PSG started. I think it would be very nice to be part of that.
“I assume that I will take a good step in my career next summer. You never know in football.”
O’Rourke believes that Botman’s comments could certainly bode well for the Magpies hopes of signing the Dutchman from French side Lille in the summer.
“It’s interesting what Botman said after the transfer window closed. He didn’t rule out a move to Newcastle, so he’s given encouraging signs for Newcastle to come back in for him,” O’Rourke said.
TIF Thoughts on the Sven Botman deal and his reluctance to rule out a move to St. James’ Park…
Botman was heavily linked to a move to St. James’ Park in January, but reports suggested that the Magpies weren’t willing to pay the £46m fee set by Lille, meaning they opted for the more sensible option of Dan Burn.
Although Dan Burn has earned rave reviews since joining, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe will be keen to bring in a highly rated defender to ensure further stability at the back, and Botman is the man most heavily linked.
Botman has been a mainstay in the Lille backline this campaign and has featured 17 times, chipping in with three goals.
At just 22 years old, the Dutchman could be a perfect defender for Howe as he looks to use the club’s funds to build for the future and push on to compete with those towards the top of the Premier League.
Botman already has Champions League experience, and with the ambitions Newcastle now have as a club, this is almost a necessity when talking about the level of player Howe is looking to bring in.