“Here we go!” According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United have reached an agreement for the transfer of Lille defender Sven Botman. Eddie Howe has been keen on Botman, having had three bids rejected in January, but both clubs have finally reached an agreement for £32 million.
Paperworks are being signed tonight between Newcastle and Lille for Sven Botman, here we go! Full agreement confirmed, €37m with add ons – and contract being prepared for Botman. 🚨⚪️⚫️ #NUFC
Medical already booked. After three bids turned down in January, it’s now completed. pic.twitter.com/ysGovP8FzK
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 24, 2022
Sven Botman: Newcastle Agree Deal to Sign 22-Year-Old Dutch Defender
Botman to Bolster the Magpies
Since being taken over by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, Newcastle have not been shy in splashing the cash. The new owners quickly strengthened the squad by signing players such as Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes. It now looks like Eddie Howe wants to bolster the defence at St. James’ Park with the signing of Botman from Ligue 1 side Lille.
Read More: Lille Pushing for Sven Botman to Join Newcastle United
The Magpies have been active thus far in this window with the signings of goalkeeper Nick Pope from Burnley and making the loan of Matt Targett a permanent deal.
With the fee agreed, all that’s left is for the Botman to agree on personal terms and pass his medical.
Numerous clubs, including AC Milan, have been interested in the services of the Lille defender. However, Newcastle have seemingly won the race for his signature.
What Botman Brings to Newcastle United
Botman appeared 34 times in all competitions for Lille as they stumbled to a disappointing tenth position in Ligue 1. Despite the team underachieving, he played well and has attracted lots of interest from around Europe. The Dutchman is highly rated and will add sturdiness to the Magpie’s backline, which conceded 62 goals league goals last campaign.
Read More: Every Premier League Transfer Completed in Summer 2022
He joined Lille in 2020 on a five-year contract after progressing through the famous Ajax academy. Botman formed a brilliant partnership with Jose Fonte during the 2020/21 title-winning season for Lille, which was vital to them stopping the Paris Saint-Germain domination.
He will add calmness to the Newcastle United defence, with his controlled demeanour on the ball being one of his best assets. The Dutchman often dominates in the air when defending, and is a vital weapon on offensive set-pieces.
