Italian giants AC Milan is close to completing the signing of Lille’s Dutch defender, Sven Botman, according to Fabrizio Romano. The talks are advanced as negotiations began months ago. Romano mentions that Botman is ready to accept the proposal while Milan works on terms with the French club.
AC Milan Working on Sven Botman Deal
The Player and the Fit
Botman is breaking out as one of the better young centre-backs in football. A catalyst for Lille, Botman helped the club win last season’s Ligue 1 title. This season, the 22-year-old has also got Champions League exposure, furthering his experience and abilities. Lille are struggling to an extent this season, sitting at seventh place in France, but Botman continues to perform. He’s even shown growth offensively, as he has three goals and one assist in 21 appearances.
Milan manager Stefano Pioli enjoys having defenders who contribute on both ends of the pitch. Botman is showing this ability. Milan’s project is also focusing greatly on youth, meaning Botman fits perfectly.
The Rossoneri are in need of a centre-back this summer with the way things look. First and foremost, Fikayo Tomori is a guaranteed starter. The Englishman’s been a star for Milan and he is arguably the club’s top performer. Simon Kjaer, also formerly of Lille, started the season alongside Tomori. Kjaer is a strong veteran leader but suffered a major injury earlier this season. He should fully recover, but he’s also older.
Then there’s Pierre Kalulu, Alessio Romagnoli, and Matteo Gabbia. Kalulu continues to impress this season. He can very well be a starter, but Milan enjoy his versatility around the defence off the bench. Romagnoli doesn’t start but is still the team captain. His contract, however, is expiring. Finally, Gabbia is a young depth option who could very well be sent out on loan to gain experience.
Botman would be a starter with Milan, and a good option at that.
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