After losing Alexander Isak this past summer, a player who we had hoped to keep for at least a couple more years on Tyneside, we must learn from that and lock down our biggest stars before more rivals come calling.
And that’s why we’ll no doubt hear of new sporting director Ross Wilson working hard behind the scenes to ensure Eddie Howe has the best talent at his disposal across all four competitions, both for this season and beyond.
Thankfully, the extension of Sandro Tonali’s deal was made during the Italian’s 10-month ban, but there’s still plenty of big stars like Tino Livramento eyeing an improved deal.
And for one key player in particular, he’s thought to be attracting interest from within the Premier League following his return to form this season…
According to The Chronicle, Liverpool and Chelsea have Sven Botman on their radar, with both clubs keen to bolster their centre-back options in 2026.
Liverpool are believed to be long-term admirers of Botman, who was positively scored by their data-led search for potential replacements for Virgil Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.
Arne Slot is also said to be a fan of his compatriot, viewing him as a “cool customer”, and will be on the lookout for a calm, composed defender if they can’t tie up a deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi next year.
Chelsea have also been described as big fans of the Dutchman, but considering the sheer number of defensive options they currently have on their books, you would imagine a move to Stamford Bridge may not be in Botman’s best interests if he wants to be a guaranteed starter.
Currently, Botman’s current deal comes to an end in 2027, but the 25-year-old is thought to be ‘open’ to a new deal and extending his stay.
Though sources in the Netherlands hint that discussions are yet to properly take place, any salary increase would likely see Botman move from his current £90,000 per-week wages up to around the £150,000 mark, in line with some of our higher earners like Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
Hopefully this is enough to tempt the big man, who is not only developing a strong partnership with Malick Thiaw, but playing regularly; two things that give him a strong chance of finally making the Dutch National Team in the months ahead.