Newcastle: PIF 'will try' to bring £27m 'machine' to St James' Park

Newcastle United will try to sign Sven Botman this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lille defender was a target for the Tyneside club in the winter transfer window, but they were unable to get a deal done in the end.

According to The Telegraph, with AC Milan yet to sign Botman, several sides are currently keeping an eye on the 22-year-old.

Given their interest in him back in January, you would imagine that Newcastle are one of those clubs who are monitoring the whole situation with Milan.

Amanda Staveley confirmed in an interview with The Athletic earlier this year that Botman wanted to join Eddie Howe’s side, so it would not be a surprise if both parties explored a transfer once again.

With the likes of Milan and Aston Villa keen, though, the Magpies face strong competition if they try to sign him.

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O’Rourke has told GIVEMESPORT that he expects Newcastle and PIF to make a fresh move for Botman in the upcoming transfer window.

Speaking to GMS, the journalist said: “I’m sure they will [make another attempt]. They tried really hard to sign him in January but just weren’t able to get that deal over the line with the player remaining in Lille.

“They still face big competition for his signature this summer with AC Milan very interested in bringing Botman to the San Siro, and obviously they have the lure of Champions League football.”

At around 6 ft 5, Botman is a tall and strong centre-back who has been compared to compatriot Virgil van Dijk and described as a “machine”.

The £27m-rated star has also been praised for his composure and the level of maturity he has shown at his young age.

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