Elite Milano Blog

Newcastle United will make another attempt to sign Lille defender Sven Botman this summer, despite interest from Italian giants, AC Milan. Botman was highly courted by Newcastle in January but the Magpies couldn’t get a deal over the line. Since then, Milan have upped their interest in Botman and it’s been claimed a move to the Serie A club is a likely outcome.

However, The Times has now reported that Newcastle still see Botman as their ideal signing. According to the report from The Times, PIF will look to go again for Botman in the hope of convincing him that the Premier League, and not Serie A, is the place for him to be. Labelled as ‘super talented’ by Duncan Castles previously, Botman is one of the most sought-after young defenders in Europe. He was instrumental in helping Lille win the French league ahead of PSG, and has admirers at other clubs, such as Liverpool.

The Toon’s business in January was expensive and steady. It was enough for them to avoid relegation and build, but there was only the odd real big signing in the five they landed. However, going for and getting someone like Botman would send a message. Botman is a defender who most in Europe would like. Therefore, if Newcastle get him, it shows real ambition.

It could also show other potential targets that Newcastle’s project is the real deal. Much like Manchester City and Chelsea many moons ago now, PIF needs some big-time players to be considered serious. Botman, then, is definitely in that bracket.

With Milan also in the Chace for the signature of Botman, there may be a twist attached to signing the player this summer as it is expected to be a battle between the interested clubs vying for thr player’s signature.