Agent rubbishes defender claims as Newcastle given renewed hope over one of ‘world’s best’
Newcastle do still have a chance to sign Lille star Sven Botman this month after his agent denied claims that the defender has rejected a move to Tyneside.
The Magpies have wasted little time in recruiting, with Kieran Trippier already on board. The full-back has joined in the hope that Eddie Howe’s side can stave off the threat of relegation. They will then set about the task of joining the Premier League elite after the Saudi-backed takeover.
But Howe needs quality players during the current window to ensure they do not slip into the Championship. Botman has been on the radar for some time.
It was reported in early December that the north-east outfit had joined Manchester United in showing an interest. But Italian giants AC Milan are also in the picture.
However, they want Botman on a loan-to-buy deal which Lille are not prepared to sanction. It remains to be seen if Lille are prepared to part company with a player so influential in their shock Ligue 1 title triumph of 2020-2021.
Reports differ on the 21-year-old’s valuation, but Sky Sports suggest a bid of £35m will be needed.
Botman ‘nonsense’ denied
Newcastle seemed to have cooled their interest after reports the central defender had ‘rejected’ a move to St James’ Park. However, the youngster’s agent, Francesco Miniero, has refuted those claims. He feels the Netherlands Under-21 ace is right up there with the best and only a few clubs have the necessary funds.
“We are talking about one of the strongest central defenders in the world, not only in Europe, also considering his age,” he said, as quoted by CalcioMercato, via the Shields Gazette. “I don’t know who in Italy can afford such a player.
“Milan are an interested club like others, but how it will end I don’t know. The Rossoneri are one of the three most important clubs in the world, as history says. But Lille are also playing in the Champions League.
“Rejected Newcastle? I think it’s nonsense. The biggest obstacle is to convince Lille.
“Newcastle is an important club, playing in an important league such as the Premier. It is true that their situation in the standings is risky, but let’s see what will happen in these 24-days.”
Newcastle sit 19th in the top-flight standings and face a vital period of the season. Next up is the visit of Watford before a trip to Elland Road to take on Leeds United.
With the FA Cup now in the rear-view mirror, February is all about gaining points in the league. Matches against Everton, Aston Villa, West Ham and Brentford await next month.
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