Newcastle close in on N26.2bn Sven Botman’s deal

Sven Botman has finished his Newcastle United medical ahead of his £35 million (N26.2bn)transfer from Lille.

Newcastle sent a private jet to pick up the Dutch defender on Monday morning so he could get his medical on Tyneside while he was on vacation in Majorca.

This summer, Botman has been Eddie Howe’s top defensive transfer target. The defender was a target for the club in January, but talks with Lille have been challenging.

They have prevailed over AC Milan in the battle for his signature.

Hugo Ekitike of Reims is still up for negotiation with Newcastle United, but they are ready to back out if there is no progress.

One source told Sky Sports News that negotiations over specific terms have been “difficult,” adding that other clubs are also interested in the France U21 International, including Paris Saint-Germain.

Additionally, according to Sky Sports News, Newcastle and the 20-year-old are nearing a personal agreement.