Sources: Newcastle United in pole position to sign Sven Botman after personal terms agreed
Newcastle United are in pole position to sign Sven Botman from Lille for around £30million this summer even though he has agreed personal terms with AC Milan, Football Insider understands.
United remain keen on their January target after failing to agree a fee with the French club for the defender, 22, in the winter window.
A Newcastle source has told Football Insider that Botman remains a priority for Eddie Howe and the recruitment team as they look to recruit a top-class centre-back.
The north-east big spenders have learned that Botman is still keen on signing for them and is eager to play in the Premier League.
Offering the Holland Under-21 international a satisfactory contract will not be a problem for Newcastle, who are backed by a consortium headed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
They are confident that Botman will accept their contract offer after verbally agreeing personal terms earlier this year.
Milan have also had a contract offer accepted by the Dutchman but Newcastle believe they can still win the race.
The Magpies have gone public with their interest in Botman and have made no attempt to hide the fact their pursuit remains alive going into the summer.
Newcastle offered £27m for him in January but Lille held firm and would not let him go.
There will be renewed spending from Newcastle this summer after they spent £94m on new signings in January.
That spree included the purchase of Dan Burn from Brighton, news of which was first revealed by Football Insider.