Inter Milan star has turned down Newcastle United offer
Eddie Howe is believed to be looking to add to his options at centre-back this summer, following the success that Dan Burn has enjoyed since joining Newcastle United last January. One player that they have been linked with heavily for a long time is Sven Botman, with the Lille defender expected to leave the French club this summer.
But, as the chase for Botman has dragged on and rumours have suggested that he prefers a switch to AC Milan, it has become clear that Newcastle United must keep their eyes open for other centre-back targets as well, in case they fail to sign the Dutchman.
It appears that the Magpies had another Dutch centre-back in their sights as well, in the form of Stefan de Vrij. The 30-year-old has been a key part of Inter Milan’s success in recent years but could end up leaving the club this summer, as he enters the final 12 months of his current deal with the Italian giants.
A move to St James’ Park might not be on the cards for De Vrij though. As tweeted out by Nicolo Schira, he has turned down Newcastle United’s offer, while Chelsea and Manchester United seem to be monitoring the player’s situation:
Not only #Chelsea: #ManchesterUnited have also asked info for Stefan #DeVrij, who could leave #Inter in the summer #transfers window. His contract expires in 2023 and there is no agreement for the renewal. The dutch centre-back has turned down #Newcastle’s bid. #MUFC https://t.co/HjrIaffzwa
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) June 11, 2022
Inter Milan star has turned down Newcastle United’s offer in major blow
Someone like De Vrij could be an excellent signing for Newcastle United, as the club look to take the next step forward and start challenging for European spots.
De Vrij has a lot of experience of playing at the very top level, both for his club and his country. Newcastle United could certainly do with a player like that. But, it does not look like De Vrij will be heading to St James’ Park this summer.
Thus, it looks like Newcastle United’s search for a new centre-back will continue, although, it must be pointed out that a move for Botman is not completely off the table yet.