Milan are back on the prowl for defenders, as Sven Botman gave in to Newcastle’s courtship over the weekend. The Dutchman, who had been in their crosshairs for months, will transfer to the Magpies for around €40M, Corriere della Sera and multiple sources confirm.
Sven Botman will travel to Tyneside early next week together with his agents, medical has already been booked. Newcastle will pay €37m with add-ons, paperworks completed. ⚪️⚫️ #NUFC
Again, negative feelings around Ekitike deal. NUFC definitely not happy with the situation.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2022
Their new and early shortlist comprises Willam Saliba and Arthur Theate. The former has returned to Arsenal after a productive loan spell at Olympique Marseille. He had spent the prior season at Nice with the same formula. The French center-back stated that he would like to be a regular for the Gunners in recent remarks about his future. His price tag is likely considerable.
The Belgian international joined Bologna for €6M last summer. The Felsinei could be open to selling him for €15M to make a quick profit. In addition, he occasionally butted heads with Sinisa Mihajlovic. As it was the case with Botman, Milan prioritize left-footed defenders that could grow next to Fikayo Tomori. Preferably without breaking the bank.
Alternatively, they could bring in a veteran for cheap and use the money to bolster the frontline. As per Gianluca Di Marzio, they got in touch with the agent of Francesco Acerbi. Furthermore, Alessio Romagnoli has not committed to a new team. He may be waiting to see whether Rossoneri will make him a new contract offer.
Our Take on Milan Missing Out on Botman
The Italian champions have not changed their MO, and it was pretty clear that the Lille ace had become too expensive. Plus, the delays in the extensions of their directors further obstructed them. Unless they identify somebody that could really move the needle, which is not easy without spending lavishly, they are better off trusting Pierre Kalulu and re-upping Romagnoli.