Alexander Isak shakes hands with Sven Botman of Newcastle United as they arrive at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, Englandplaceholder image
Alexander Isak shakes hands with Sven Botman of Newcastle United as they arrive at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England | Getty Images
One of Liverpool's centre-back targets has committed to a new contract with his club, less than two weeks after the Reds cooled their interest
Newcastle United defender Sven Botman has committed his future in the north east with as a deal has been done over a new contract.
The 26-year-old joined the Magpies from Lille in 2022 for around £35m. However, he has had persistent injury problems since his move to St James’ Park and only recently returned from a period out after picking up a hamstring problem against Manchester City in November.
Liverpool have been linked with several Premier League defenders, including Brentford captain Nathan Collins, Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke and top target Marc Guehi.
Any chances of reviving a move for Botman now appear slim to none, with Newcastle confirming he had officially signed a new deal at St James’ Park until summer 2030.
He said: “I’m really happy to sign this contract. This club has given me so much in the last three-and-a-half years.
“I’ve grown as a person and as a player here and I feel like I have so much more to give in the long term. That’s why both parties are really happy with this decision and I’m looking forward to what’s coming in the future here.”
One Liverpool player who might be upset to see the Reds’ chances of signing Botman significantly drop is striker Alexander Isak.
Liverpool record signing Isak and Botman arrived at Newcastle in the same transfer window, with the Sweden international previously naming the defender as his best friend in football.
Speaking while still a Newcastle player, Isak was asked who is best friend in football was, and said: “I’d probably say Sven Botman. He sits next to me in the locker room. He’s a great guy. We spend a lot of time together.”
Isak is currently out with a fractured leg after being on the end of reckless challenge after scoring in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last month.
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