Liverpool are reportedly weighing up a potential move for Newcastle United defender Sven Botman, in a transfer that could mirror their interest in Alexander Isak before his big move to St James’ Park.
The Dutch centre-back has been one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since arriving from Lille, but his future at Newcastle has now come under scrutiny as he edges closer to the final year of his contract.
Botman’s current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2026, and by the end of this season, he will have just 12 months left on his contract. This situation naturally raises alarm among Newcastle fans, as it opens the door for rival clubs to test the Magpies’ resolve with tempting offers.
If no new agreement is reached soon, Newcastle could find themselves in a vulnerable position, risking the possibility of losing one of their defensive pillars for a reduced fee.
Sources close to the club have revealed that securing Botman’s long-term future is a major priority for Newcastle’s hierarchy. The responsibility for managing these crucial negotiations now lies with the newly appointed sporting director, Ross Wilson.
He has been tasked with handling several key contract renewals, including talks with Tino Livramento, Bruno Guimaraes, and Joelinton players who are all seen as central to the club’s long-term project under Eddie Howe.
Despite Newcastle’s desire to tie him down to a new deal, there is growing interest from other Premier League giants. Both Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly monitoring Botman’s situation closely, aware that his contract situation could soon present an opportunity.
According to The Chronicle, the two clubs are maintaining what has been described as “arm’s length” interest not yet making an official approach, but watching developments carefully.
For Liverpool, strengthening their defensive options has become a key focus. The Reds tried unsuccessfully to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on deadline day last summer, and with Joel Matip expected to depart at the end of the season, they are eager to bring in a proven Premier League centre-back.
Botman’s calmness under pressure, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back make him an ideal fit for Jurgen Klopp’s system.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are also keen to reinforce their defence after another inconsistent start to the campaign. With Thiago Silva approaching the twilight of his career and uncertainty surrounding other options, Botman’s age and profile make him a perfect candidate for a long-term rebuild.
The Dutchman’s experience in both domestic and European competition adds further appeal, and his physicality would suit the Premier League’s demands perfectly.
Ironically, Botman is known to have been close friends with Alexander Isak during their time together at Newcastle.
The pair struck up a strong bond both on and off the pitch, and Isak’s rise has often drawn comparisons to Liverpool’s recruitment model identifying talent early and developing it into world-class quality. It’s perhaps no surprise that Liverpool are now looking at Botman through a similar lens.
Botman himself is believed to be content at Newcastle and appreciative of the progress he has made under Eddie Howe. He has become a key figure in the Magpies’ backline, helping the team achieve one of the Premier League’s best defensive records last season.
His leadership, composure, and positional intelligence have all improved significantly since his move from Lille, and he remains a fan favourite at St James’ Park. However, his representatives have remained silent on any ongoing contract talks, fueling speculation that a decision could be delayed until after the January transfer window.
Currently earning around £90,000 per week, Botman’s wages place him below Newcastle’s top earners such as Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes.
A new deal would likely include a pay rise that reflects his importance to the team. The club’s management is said to be aware of this and willing to make him one of the highest-paid defenders in their history to secure his commitment.
When asked about the situation, Eddie Howe confirmed that discussions about new contracts will soon take place under Ross Wilson’s supervision.
The Newcastle boss explained that Wilson’s first priority is to familiarize himself with the club’s internal structure before making key decisions on player renewals.
Howe expressed full confidence that Wilson would handle the matter strategically and ensure Newcastle’s best players remain tied down long-term.
For now, the focus remains on keeping Botman happy and ensuring he continues to play a leading role in Newcastle’s defence. But as interest from clubs like Liverpool and Chelsea grows, the pressure will mount for the Magpies to act fast.
The coming months will be crucial either Newcastle secure one of their most prized assets on a new long-term deal, or risk watching another Premier League rival make their move for one of Europe’s most composed and reliable defenders.
Whatever the outcome, Botman’s future looks set to dominate the headlines as the transfer window approaches. For Newcastle, losing him would be a major setback to their ambitions, while for Liverpool or Chelsea, it could be the defensive reinforcement they have been searching for.
