Botman confirms Newcastle interest as he says he is eyeing a ‘new step’ in career

Jason Soutar
Sven Botman during a warm-up

Sven Botman has admitted that he has probably played his last game for Lille and also confirmed Newcastle and AC Milan’s interest in him.

The Magpies made Botman their number one defensive target in the January transfer window but were unable to strike a deal.


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Lille were eager to keep hold of the Dutch centre-half for the remainder of 2021/22, especially ahead of their Champions League last 16 tie against Chelsea.

Newcastle then targeted Diego Carlos and were once again unable to bring him in as Sevilla looked to maintain their La Liga title challenge.

They were tipped to come back in for both Botman and Carlos this summer, however, the former has also been heavily linked with AC Milan, meanwhile, the latter signed for Premier League rivals Aston Villa this week.

It has been widely reported that Botman would join Milan ahead of Newcastle, whilst some reports claim that Manchester United are ready to hijack a deal.

Whilst on international duty with the Netherlands under-21s, the 22-year-old was interviewed by Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad, as relayed by Sport Witness.

When asked if he has played his last game for Lille, Botman replied: “I don’t know, but I think so. I intend to take a step. Talks are underway now. I won’t go into all that, but it’s going well. I do hope that the transfer for the new season is completed. Preferably also for the preparation, yes.”

It was then specifically stated that Newcastle and Milan are among the clubs trying to sign him.

Responding to that, Botman said: “Those clubs are interested, yes. I can’t and won’t say much more about it. What I want? Taking a nice step towards a nice competition. I am also looking forward to a new step. I am aware of what I want.

“That is not necessarily to that club or that competition. You weigh all kinds of things and then the total picture has to suit you. I have to have a really good feeling about it.”