Newcastle United dealt midfielder transfer ‘setback’ as defender’s agent reveals ‘dream’

Newcastle United are well on their way to improving the squad significantly ahead of the new season.

The Magpies were always expected to invest heavily this season, armed with their new-found wealth, and they have not disappointed.

The latest arrival is Lille star Sven Botman, who has now joined Newcastle after several months of pursuit from the North East giants.

Eddie Howe is already making significant progress as he looks to oversee an improved campaign following improvements in the second half of last season.

We could yet see further improvements at St James’ Park between now and the end of the season.

And with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours:

McTominay interest

Newcastle are said to have expressed an interest in signing Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay this summer.

According to The Times, the Magpies have made contact with United over the Scotland international, hoping to strengthen the midfield.

Though, the report does add that Erik ten Hag wants to keep McTominay around for the coming season.

It’s also thought the midfielder wants to stay at Old Trafford, so Newcastle may need to look elsewhere for midfield targets.

Botman’s agent statement

Botman is now a Newcastle player after months of links between the two.

The Magpies pursued a deal back in January but couldn’t get it over the line, and it looked as though they might miss out this summer.

Reports claimed AC Milan were closing in on a deal, but Newcastle managed to win the race in the end, and it’s a huge boost for Howe, who had already built a solid back line.

Despite reports suggesting Botman didn’t want a move to Newcastle in months gone by, it seems the Dutchman has dreamed of a Premier League move.

Botman’s agent, Nikkie Bruinenberg, tweeted: “‘Nik, one day I want to play in the Premier League’. Here we are.”