Newcastle United have made a ‘verbal approach’ for LOSC Lille defender Sven Botman, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

Botman has been linked with a move to St. James’ Park for several months now, but it seems as though he is edging ever closer to joining Eddie Howe’s revolution.

What is the latest news involving Botman?

The Magpies first made an approach for the 22-year-old in January, only to be resolutely informed by his current club that he was not for sale at the midway point in the campaign.

However, Newcastle have revived their interest in Botman this summer, and are now involved in an intense tussle with Serie A champions AC Milan for his signature.

According to the Daily Mail’s North-East football correspondent Craig Hope, Lille want €40 million (£34.5m) for their prized asset, although a deal has still not been agreed upon between the two clubs.

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Meanwhile, a recent report in The Athletic states that Tottenham Hotspur have ‘been monitoring’ Botman’s situation, and 90min claim Paris Saint-Germain have now also entered the race for the centre-back.

The added competition will only intensify Newcastle’s desires to get this deal wrapped up as quickly as possible, yet that has proved extremely difficult so far.  

What has Taylor said about Botman?

Newcastle have also been involved in a lengthy transfer saga with Stade Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, who chose not to join the club in the winter window.

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And when asked if there could be movement on either deal this week, Taylor informed GiveMeSport that progress on the Botman deal was more likely.

He told GMS: “I think Botman definitely. From what I understand, Newcastle have offered upwards of £30 million with a verbal approach that they'd be willing to pay that kind of money with add-ons included to get the deal done.”

Is Botman worth the wait?

Botman, who was described as a "leader" by former manager Christophe Galtier, made the brave decision to depart boyhood club Ajax in search of regular game time in July 2020 and has been more than justified in making that choice.

The 6 foot 5 monster formed a formidable partnership alongside Jose Fonte in the heart of defence throughout 2020/21, claiming the Ligue 1 title ahead of French giants PSG.

And Botman maintained his impressive form last term despite Lille falling to a 10th-placed finish in the top-flight standings.

As per WhoScored, the former Netherlands Under-21 international won 2.3 aerial duels, made a whopping 4.5 clearances and pulled off 0.8 blocks per league game.

It’s clear that Botman possesses top-class potential, and if he does eventually land at Newcastle, he could well be worth the wait.