Simon Kjaer’s injury has prompted Milan to hunt for reinforcements in the center-back position, with both Fikayo Tomori and Alessio Romagnoli out for the time being due to coronavirus complications.
Matteo Gabbia and Pierre Kalulu were the ones to take on the stopper positions when Milan encountered Venezia, but a new signing in the position seems like the need of the hour for the Rossoneri.
Lille defender Sven Botman was the primary target for Ricky Massara and Paolo Maldini. However, according to new reports from Calciomercato, chances of landing the Dutchman are nil, as Lille have now made sure to hold onto the 21-year-old atleast until the end of the current season.
The French champions have priced out the top two contenders for Botman’s signature – Milan & Newcastle United – by demanding an asking price upwards of €35-40m.
Lille position on Sven Botman’s still the same: he’s untouchable and his future will be discussed in the summer. Deal off with Newcastle. ⚪️ #NUFC #Lille
Magpies already working on two other candidates in order to sign a new centre back this week. pic.twitter.com/LVEWZCXpj7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 10, 2022
Lille are contesting in the first knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League, facing current European champions Chelsea next, and letting Botman leave at the moment would prove to be a hard position to compensate for.
Milan are already tracking other defenders to bring in. Paris Saint-Germain’s Abdou Diallo, Tottenham’s Japhet Tanganga, Manchester United’s Eric Bailly and 19-year-old Empoli prodigy Mattia Viti is also being scouted, according to the report.