Newcastle submit improved offer for Lille defender Sven Botman
Newcastle United have submitted an improved offer for Lille defender Sven Botman, The Athletic understands.
Botman, 21, is the Premier League club’s first-choice target at centre-back this window, with their interest first revealed by The Athletic on December 6.
It is unclear how Lille will respond to Newcastle’s improved offer.
The French club, who sit eighth in Ligue 1, are determined to keep hold of the Netherlands Under-21 international for the remainder of their campaign, especially ahead of a Champions League round-of-16 clash against defending European champions Chelsea.
Lille’s financial situation could make a sale necessary, however, if Newcastle’s offer is strong enough.
It is thought that Botman is keen on a move to the Premier League having moved to France from Dutch side SC Heerenveen at the beginning of the 2020-21 season.
Newcastle meanwhile completed the signing of the England international Kieran Trippier on Friday morning.
