Newcastle’s bid to sign defender takes twist after Sven Botman update – sources
Newcastle United may relax their pursuit of a new centre-back with Sven Botman ramping up his return from injury, sources have told Football Insider.
Botman is recovering from a serious knee injury and returned to light training earlier this month – before revealing he is “feeling really good” in an interview last week.
Newcastle made a new centre-back one of their top priorities in the summer window but failed to land big-money target Marc Guehi.
Sources say the Magpies still want to add a new defender despite Botman’s return but in a new twist, the Netherlands international coming back could mean they wait until next summer.
Eddie Howe and sporting director Paul Mitchell will not rush into a big-money deal in the new year if it is not considered right for the club, and could prioritise other areas in the squad for improvement.
Botman has been out of action since March when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament away at Man City in the FA Cup.
Newcastle may postpone centre-back move after Botman news
Newcastle have lined up with Dan Burn and Fabian Schar in the heart of their defence this term, with Lewis Hall becoming a more regular starter at left-back.
The Magpies added Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer in the summer transfer window but he has played a limited role so far in the 2024-25 campaign.
Kelly had played just two minutes in the Premier League since being hooked at half-time in the 21 September loss against Fulham, but returned to the starting lineup against West Ham on Monday (25 November).
Howe also has club captain Jamal Lascelles on the books but he is also out with a serious knee injury.
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