MY ACCOUNT
Sven Botman acknowledged interest from AC Milan and Newcastle as he confirmed his desire to leave Lille before the new season kicks off.
Botman has established himself as one of the standout defenders in Ligue 1 over the past two seasons, winning the title with Lille in 2020-21.
His form has unsurprisingly prompted interest from elsewhere, with Milan and Newcastle both linked with moves since the January window.
A transfer to one of these clubs now appears highly likely, with Botman asked if he had played his last game for Lille.
“I don’t know, but I think so,” the centre-back told AD. “I intend to take a step.
“Talks are under way now. I won’t go into all of that, but it’s going well. I do hope that the transfer for the new season is completed. Preferably also for the pre-season, yes.”
Pressed specifically on Serie A champions Milan and resurgent Premier League outfit Newcastle, Botman said: “Those clubs are interested, yes. I can’t and won’t say much more about it.
“What I want is to take a nice step towards a nice competition. I am also looking forward to a new step.
“I am aware of what I want – that is not necessarily to that club or that competition. You weigh all kinds of things and then the total picture has to suit you. I must have a very good feeling about it.”
As well as that move, Botman has ambitions for international recognition, still waiting on a Netherlands call-up with Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt among his Oranje rivals.
“I’m just patient,” he added. “Ultimately, I hope that one day I can be a permanent fixture in the Oranje selection.
“I don’t think I’m in a position right now to necessarily need an explanation. I just have to show that I belong there. I’m not in a hurry, but the Oranje is of course a goal.”
“It’s not up to me. That should be determined by others and especially the national coach. I haven’t spoken to him one-on-one yet.
“I have not been selected now and so I have to show extra that I do belong there. Do I feel ready? Yes, I think I can do that, although of course I still have a lot to learn.
“The Oranje has good defenders. If one or two are missing, you hope to be able to fill that. But hopefully that will come.”
