Manchester United given a free run at Sven Botman with Liverpool ending pursuit
As reported by the Express, Manchester United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of LOSC Lille defender Sven Botman, with Liverpool not pursuing his signing.
The 20-year-old defender came through the youth ranks at Ajax and moved to Lille only this past summer. Since joining, Botman has made quite the impression in France, featuring in all of Lille’s 23 matches in all competitions, helping them to nine clean sheets.
Botman’s impressive displays had put him on the radars of Manchester United as well as arch-rivals Liverpool. However, The Athletic’s James Pearce, taking to Twitter, has ruled out the Reds from making a move for the Dutchman. (h/t Express)
“No talks over a deal for Sven Botman. Liverpool not considering a move for him. Sounds like someone is trying to drive up the price/interest in the Lille defender.”
This has left the field open for Manchester United to launch a move for the 20-year-old centre-back in the January transfer window.
Manchester United’s backline has blown hot and cold over the course of the season. Neither Harry Maguire nor Victor Lindelof have looked solid enough. Furthermore, the latter has been struggling with a chronic back problem.
Eric Bailly has done well in the past few games, but his sketchy injury record remains a concern. With Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo not part of the plans under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, it makes sense for the club to recruit a new centre-back.
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Botman hasn’t had a lot of experience at the highest level. But the Dutchman has made all the right noises so far in his time at Lille, making him an attractive target.
With Liverpool now dropping out, we have a clear run at his signing. It, however, remains to be seen if the club does launch a move.
