The Milan management are still at work to try and secure the signing of Sven Botman ahead of the summer but they again face competition from Newcastle United, a report claims.
Calciomercato.com report how Maldini and Massara are carrying out negotiations with Lille over Botman and their strategy is to close the deal before the end of the season to protect themselves from the competition that Newcastle will provide, as the cash-rich English side have no intention of giving up.
Amanda Staveley – the British financier who works for Newcastle’s new ownership – exclusively told The Athletic that Botman wanted to sign at all costs for the Magpies in January, which shows that despite facing the risk of relegation at that time (they have now steered clear) the appeal of one of the richest clubs in the world is there.
Milan for their part are very optimistic about winning the race for the Dutchman because they know they are on pole. An agreement in principle with Botman’s agents is already in place and now they need a definitive agreement with Lille, which should come at around €35m including bonuses.
