Botman has played an important role in Newcastle United’s rise to the top-half of the Premier League table, quickly establishing himself a key member of the squad.
Milan have concluded their lengthy search for a new defender, as they have struck a deal with Schalke 04 for Malick Thiaw. The center-back arrived in Italy yesterday to take the medicals and complete the formalities. He had been on their radar for multiple windows.
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 Magpies for €40M, forcing the Rossoneri to look elsewhere.
Milan are monitoring less expensive targets in case Sven Botman joined Newcastle United or PSG, or if they simply decided not to make a sizeable investment in the defense. The Rossoneri are eyeing a trio of young specialists and Francesco Acerbi.
Despite the ownership change from Elliott to RedBird Capital, the transfer market philosophy of Milan will not change, and their budget will be similar to recent years. The Rossoneri have about €50M at their disposal, plus what they will cash in from sales.
Milan and Lazio have earmarked Pablo Mari in case they could not get their top defensive targets. The center-back fared well while on loan from Arsenal to Udinese in the last six months. The Friuliani do not have a set option to buy him out.
Long-time Milan target Sven Botman has been one of the most talked-about defenders in the world the past season, having helped Lille secure an unprecedented Ligue 1 title in 2020/21. PSG and Newcastle are hot on the trail of the Ajax youth product.
Milan have been after Renato Sanches and Sven Botman since last Autumn. One of the two chases is about to come to fruition, as they are nearing an agreement for the midfielder. Instead, the acquisition of the defender has become more complicated.
Milan continue to keep tabs on Sven Botman, but Inter target Bremer has become a serious alternative. As it happened in January, Newcastle are strong competitors for the Dutchman. The defender de facto announced that he would leave Lille.
Milan remain the front-runners in the race to sign sought-after Lille defender Sven Botman despite growing interest from the Premier League. As per recent reports in France, the LOSC centre-back is close to penning a long-term contract at the San Siro amid speculation about his potential move to England.
While Milan inquired about other midfielders, Renato Sanches is still the top candidate to replace Franck Kessié. The Rossoneri have been after the Lille ace for months and have a clear lead over the competition. They are looking to seal the deal on his personal terms.
Milan will have plenty to spend in the summer, as their budget will reach the triple-digit threshold. The finances of the club are healthy, plus the certainty of the Champions League qualification and the possible Scudetto win will further add to their economic ammo.