On a day when Matt Targett has sealed a loan move to Middlesbrough, another Newcastle defender is now being linked with what would be a shock exit.
According to [Fabrizio Romano](https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1960710249372885048), Sven Botman is receiving late interest from Bayern Leverkusen ahead of Monday’s deadline.
He reports that the Bundesliga side have launched a surprise enquiry over a potential move for the Dutchman, with Leverkusen identifying Botman as a new centre-back target as Piero Hincapie receives Premier League interest.
It is seen as a ‘difficult’ and ‘unlikely’ deal for Erik Ten Hag’s side to pull off, however, with Newcastle uninterested in selling the 25-year-old, especially at this late stage of the window.
Writing on X this afternoon, Romano said: _‘Bayer Leverkusen made an enquiry for Sven Botman as new centre back target in case Hincapié leaves._
_‘Deal seen as more than difficult, Newcastle don’t want to sell Botman so unlikely to happen.’_
Botman has not started yet this season, with Dan Burn and Fabian Schar starring in our opening two games, but the former Lille star is a huge part of Eddie Howe’s plans and expected to be a long-term partner for new signing Malick Thiaw.
He has had a number of knee issues, which limited him over pre-season after missing the majority of 2024/25, and has entered the final two years of his contract at the club.
One to watch in windows to come if he can’t stay fit and doesn’t earn a contract extension, but we can’t see Newcastle even entertaining any bids at this stage of the summer, with all the focus on recruiting at least one striker.