The agents of Lille’s Dutch defender Sven Botman met with the AC Milan board today, according to Fabrizio Romano. Botman is a priority for the Rossoneri as they are planning on signing a top centre-back this summer.
Newcastle United were very interested in Botman last month during the winter transfer window, but the player was considered untouchable by Lille. It remains to be seen if the Magpies will reignite interest.
Romano reports that the meeting was positive as AC Milan made their intentions clear.
AC Milan Have Positive Meeting With Agents of Lille’s Sven Botman
The Player and the Fit
Botman is a rising star in Ligue 1. Regularly starting for Lille, the 22-year-old shows promise as one of the top young centre-backs in Europe. He plays wise beyond his years, but another asset is that his stature makes him a massive presence as well.
It’s no question that Milan is searching for centre-back help. Veteran Simon Kjaer returns next season from injury, but, turning 33 in March, he’s also aging. That, paired with a major injury, is concerning. Fikayo Tomori is Milan’s top centre-back option, but he needs a long-term partner at the back. Tomori is 24-years-old, so a pairing with the young Botman makes sense.
Milan’s other three centre-back options include Alessio Romagnoli, Pierre Kalulu, and Matteo Gabbia.
Romagnoli is another veteran and the captain of this squad. With that being said, his contract still needs to be renewed. His future at Milan remains in question. Kalulu is a surprising talent but it’s unlikely that he’s a regular starter. Milan, however, view him as a reliable player. Gabbia is still young and inexperienced. He recently extended his contract, essentially guaranteeing him a spot on Milan’s depth chart.
Botman is a hot commodity. Clubs around Europe looking to improve their defence are rampant. Milan appear to hold the upper hand right now. This afternoon’s meeting with Botman’s agent speaks volumes on Milan’s heating interest.
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