Sven Botman confirms his time at LOSC is over and there is ‘interest’ from both Milan and Newcastle United, but has not yet made a decision on his next step.
The 22-year-old centre-back has long been a target for the two clubs and that battle was cut short by Lille in January, when they refused to consider any offers to sell mid-season.
Now the summer is here and the €30m bidding war is all set to resume, although things have changed at Milan with the arrival of new owners RedBird.
“I don’t know, but I do think I’ve played my last game for Lille,” Botman told Dutch paper Algemeen Dagblad.
“My intention is to take a step forward in my career. I hope the transfer can be completed soon, preferably in time for the start of pre-season training.”
When it is put to him that Newcastle and Milan are the favourites, he does not deny that.
“They are interested. What I want is to make a step forward and play in a strong competition, I can’t wait. It’s not just the club or competition that will make me decide one way or another, I need to feel the right sensations around the club too.”
Milan are in the Champions League for the second season in a row and this time are top seeds in the draw, having won their first Serie A title in 11 years.
Newcastle United flirted with Premier League relegation this term, despite the takeover from the Saudi Public Investment Fund in October 2021.
Botman: “Voglio lasciare Lille e fare un passo avanti. Milan? E’ interessato” https://t.co/gUjbAZ0Ow6
— MilanNews.it (@MilanNewsit) June 2, 2022
Given funds from the new owners won’t be in place for the summer window, is this really a priority? Why get into a bidding war with a club with unlimited funds for a player we don’t necessarily need?
Yeah, joining Newcastle would be the step forward for your career! For your bank account, maybe.