Newcastle’s pursuit of Lille’s Sven Botman is ‘all but over’, according to The Athletic.
This comes from David Ornstein, who has revealed in the last few moments that the Ligue 1 side are now refusing to consider the centre-back’s sale this month after a series of offers from NUFC.
He reports that Newcastle have reluctantly shifted their attention to other targets, with Sevilla’s Diego Carlos and Monaco’s Benoit Badiashile the back-up options set to be pursued now a move for our top target appears to be dead – barring an ‘unexpected twist.’
Ornstein claims that Lille are refusing to hold any more talks with anyone interested in Botman, despite the player himself being ‘keen’ to complete a January move to St James’ Park.
This comes after RMC Sport reported earlier today that the French side had rejected a bid in the region of £30m for the 21-year-old.
It’s thought we are already in working on a deal to sign Carlos – the 28-year-old Brazilian currently playing in La Liga – while it’s thought Monaco will be seeking a ‘hefty’ fee for highly-rated 20-year-old, Badiashile.