Eddie Howe responds to Newcastle United’s interest in Sven Botman amid reports of fresh bid

Eddie Howe refused to comment on Newcastle United’s interest in Lille defender Sven Botman.

It is understood the Netherlands under-21s international is the Magpies’ top defensive target and the club have not given up hope of signing him.

NewcastleWorld reached out to Botman’s representatives, however they kept their cards very close to their chest.

Reports from The Athletic claim United have submitted an improved bid for Botman after their opening bid was rejected earlier this week.

We understand the player is indded keen on a move to St James’ Park but Lille are not in favour of offloading their title-winning centre-half.

What Eddie Howe said on Newcastle’s interest in Sven Botman

Asked about Newcastle’s interest, head coach Eddie Howe said: “I can never comment on individual players due to respect of player and club he plays.”

It is hoped the signing of England international Kieran Trippier will tempt other targets into wanting to join the project on Tyneside.

On signing Trippier, Howe added: “We’re delighted. He is a player I know very well from our time at Burnley.

“He’s going to bring a huge amount off the pitch as well as on it through his leadership qualities and winning menality.

“He’s very driven to succeed and I think all his experiences that he’s accumulated in the game will help us in our current posiiton.

“On the pitch, we have an outstanding technical player who will attack very well, bringing a level of calmness to our play. He’s a top defender.”