Wolves have been dealt a blow in their quest to sign Lille centre-back Sven Botman in January, with the Dutchman expected to stay put until the summer.
The Lowdown: Wolves keen on Botman
The 21-year-old is a key figure for the reigning Ligue 1 champions, standing out as a dominant performer despite his tender years. As per WhoScored, he is among their top five players in terms of overall ranking so far this season.
Wolves have been linked with a move for Botman a number of times in recent weeks, as Bruno Lage looks to bring in another defender in the January transfer window.
Newcastle are also thought to be eyeing up a move for the Lille centre-back, but a fresh update suggests that both clubs could have to wait to get their man.
The Latest: Milan director makes Botman reveal
As shared by journalist Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, AC Milan director Frederic Massara has claimed that Lille won’t sell Botman this month, with the Italian giants also seen as potential suitors.
The San Siro chief revealed to Sky Italy: “Sven Botman’s an amazing centre back but I think Lille have no intention to sell him in January.”
The Verdict: Move on instead?
Judging by Massara’s comments, it looks as though Wolves will have to wait for the time being if they want to sign Botman, giving Lage the dilemma of either moving on to another transfer target or being patient.
That revelation comes as blow to the Old Gold’s chances of landing the 21-year-old, but in truth, it could be hard for Wanderers to sign the centre-back at all, given Newcastle’s vast wealth and Milan’s stature as a European powerhouse.
For that reason, looking at an alternative target could make perfect sense in the coming weeks if Lage wants to add further competition for the likes of Max Kilman, Conor Coady and Romain Saiss.
In other news, some Wolves fans have reacted to a key fitness update. Read more here.