Milan have identified Sven Botman as the ideal defender to replace the injured Simon Kjaer. But it will not be easy to acquire him from Lille, considering he has multiple suitors. Moreover, his team has set a rather lofty price tag, although they are facing financial difficulties that should facilitate his departure.
The Rossoneri are plotting to make a strong attempt in January. They fear the competition would be even more intense next summer. On the other hand, they would prefer getting him on loan with option to buy. It would allow them to postpone the investment and thoroughly evaluate the player. It worked out well with Fikayo Tomori in the recent past. They believe the young duo would solidify the back-line for years to come.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Lille ask for €30M to sell Botman. West Ham and especially Newcastle are eyeing him as well. Les Dogues will try to monetize the transfer as much as possible, which could put the Italian side at a disadvantage.
Milan are trying to exploit a pair of factors in their chase of the Dutch defender, La Gazzetta dello Sport informs. They were one of the first teams to track him and open talks with his entourage. Furthermore, they have an excellent relationship with Lille. They previously acquired Mike Maignan and Rafael Leao from them, reaching agreement fairly quickly. However, it remains to be seen whether the French club will accept the formula, even if the Rossoneri were to match the evaluation, given the brewing bidding war.