There is growing optimism that Sven Botman will finally move to Newcastle United this summer, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
The Botman saga has dragged on for months.
The subject of multiple bids during the January transfer window, Newcastle and AC Milan remained front-runners in the race one of Europe’s most in-demand central defenders even after the deadline had passed.
PSG, Tottenham and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest, although the player himself recently confirmed his representatives were “working” on a deal to take him to the San Siro, having previously expressed a desire to move to St James’ Park after the takeover.
While beating the Italian champions to his signing would look difficult given their status as one of Europe’s leading clubs as well as the allure of Champions League football, the report does hint Botman has made quite an impression on the Newcastle hierarchy.
Indeed, they suggest there is a “feeling” that the money on offer could tempt Botman to the Premier League.
What could Sven Botman bring to Newcastle?
At 22 and having already made over 60 appearances in one of Europe’s major five leagues – winning Ligue 1 with Lille in 2021 – Botman looks a real talent for the future.
Eddie Howe’s coaching has already proven transformative for the likes of Fabian Schar, Joe Willock, Ryan Fraser and Joelinton, so the idea of him overseeing the development of a player to have performed at the top level already is exciting.
As promising as the future is, a look into the statistical averages he is already producing speaks to a gifted defender.
According to FBREF data, Botman ranks within the leading 66% of central defenders playing across the continent’s big five leagues over the past year for aerial duels won (3.00), clearances (4.76), blocks (1.99), passes attempted (59.12) and average pass completion rate (89%) on a per-game basis.
For context, none of Dan Burn, Fabian Schar or Jamaal Lascelles could beat him for the percentage of aerial duels won (73.%), tackles won (1) or average pass completion rate (89.1%) per game last season.
With Lascelles touted for a return to Nottingham Forest, Botman looks a major upgrade and an ideal long-term investment.
What has been said about Sven Botman and Newcastle?
Speaking to The Athletic in February, Amanda Staveley claimed Botman was “desperate” to join the club.
“Some desperately wanted to come to us, like Sven (Botman), who still does very much and has talked very openly about that.”
