In a recent edition of the Reach PLC Transfer Window Podcast, Duncan Castles has claimed that Liverpool are eyeing a January move for LOSC Lille Sven Botman. Castles has also revealed that the Reds are currently in talks with the player’s agent over a potential move during the winter transfer period (transcripted by The Daily Express).
Botman’s Incredible Form Under Christophe Galtier’s Stewardship
The Badhoevedorp-born prospect is having a solid campaign at Lille this season after producing a run of dominant displays alongside José Fonte at the heart of Christophe Galtier’s defence. He has featured in 23 matches for the French outfit this term, picking up one assist and four yellow cards in the process across all fronts.
Botman has enjoyed a decent run of form at the Stade Pierre Mauroy this season as he is averaging 1.2 tackles, 1.9 interceptions and 2.6 clearances per 90 minutes in the Ligue 1 and the UEFA Europa League group stages. He has even distributed possession accurately out from defence as evidenced by his pass success rate of 85.7% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
The 20-year-old is one of the most promising young defenders in European football, so the Reds would do well to lure him away from France this month. Botman could potentially become a future star and would be a great long-term option for the Merseyside outfit to consider during this January transfer window.
What Will The Dutch Youngster Bring To Anfield?
Botman has established himself as a reliable centre-back in the Ligue 1 this season as he possesses good defensive awareness that allows him to make some critical interceptions at the back. The Dutch defensive ace can use his strong 1.95m frame to win his fair share of aerial duels and has developed a habit of clearing his lines when needed.
However, the talented youngster doesn’t have enough experience under his belt to justify a move to the Premier League right now. Still, Jurgen Klopp’s increasing need for a new centre-back could see him take a chance on Botman during this January transfer window.
Liverpool are currently without three of their senior defenders as both Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez are sidelined with long-term injuries while Joel Matip will also be out of action for this month due to an abductor problem. Hence, the Reds would be wise to bring in someone of Botman’s potential who could fill in during Matip’s absence and then, serve as a rotational piece in the remainder of this campaign.
Botman is a player on the rise and will only get better in the coming seasons, which makes him an ideal long-term acquisition for the Merseyside giants if they can get a deal over the line for him this winter.
