Key Points
- Liverpool are considering a bid for Newcastle United centre-back Sven Botman in the summer of 2026.
- The 26-year-old Netherlands international would mentor new signing Jeremy Jacquet.
- Botman recently signed a new long-term contract with Newcastle until 2030.
- Liverpool face defensive needs with Ibrahima Konate departing and Virgil van Dijk ageing.
- Botman’s injury history, including an ACL tear in 2024, raises concerns for potential suitors.
Liverpool (Liverpool Standard) February 8, 2026 – Liverpool are weighing a summer move for Newcastle United defender Sven Botman to bolster their backline amid upcoming defensive transitions.
The Merseyside club have already secured Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes but seek an experienced partner for the young Frenchman, with Botman emerging as a target according to multiple reports. Sources indicate Liverpool will monitor the 26-year-old’s form and fitness before proceeding. Newcastle’s defensive depth could complicate any deal despite Botman’s recent contract extension.
Why is Liverpool targeting Sven Botman?
According to Sports Boom, as reported by CaughtOffside and Teamtalk, Liverpool view Botman as an ideal mentor for Jacquet while addressing long-term needs. Ibrahima Konate is set to leave on a free transfer, Virgil van Dijk is 34 and nearing the end of his career, and Joe Gomez’s injury issues make reinforcements essential. Botman has impressed in 99 appearances for Newcastle since 2022, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
As reported by Sports Boom via Empire of the Kop, Arne Slot supports adding another centre-back, with Botman’s Premier League experience seen as a key asset despite interest from Chelsea.
What challenges does Botman face in a potential move?
Botman’s injury record poses risks, having missed 66 matches since joining Newcastle, including an ACL injury in 2024 and a hamstring issue this season, per Transfermarkt data cited by Empire of the Kop. Liverpool prioritise availability and may hesitate over the gamble. Yardbarker notes Newcastle’s defensive vulnerabilities, making Botman’s sale a significant blow.
How recent is Botman’s commitment to Newcastle?
Teamtalk reports Botman signed a new contract last month, binding him to St James’ Park until 2030, yet this would not deter Liverpool from an approach. Football-Talk.co.uk highlights his strong performances but underscores the injury concerns for any big move.
What are the next steps for this transfer story?
Liverpool plan to track Botman through the season’s remainder before deciding on a formal bid, as per Sports Boom via Anfield Watch and OneFootball. Newcastle’s stance remains unclear, with no indication of willingness to negotiate. The situation could evolve as the summer window approaches.
Developments will depend on Botman’s fitness and Liverpool’s defensive priorities, with ongoing monitoring by club officials.
