Newcastle transfer news: Eddie Howe shortlists 21-year-old Sven Botman backup and potential future captain

Some fresh Newcastle transfer news is linking Eddie Howe with a move for a centre back from Ligue 1. According to a claim by Football Insider, Newcastle are one of a Premier League trio who are interested in signing Arouna Sangante of Le Havre.

Newcastle transfer news: Eddie Howe shortlists 21-year-old Sven Botman backup

Ageing at just 21 years old, the Senegalese centre back already captains the Ligue 1 side, who find themselves in a respectable 8th place of the French top flight, having remained unbeaten in their last five games.

Sangante is making a name for himself in Europe, so it's no surprise to see that Newcastle are one of the earliest teams to become interested in signing him. Given that Jamaal Lascelles is 30 years old and Fabian Schar is 31 years old, it's sensible of the Newcastle recruitment team to consider signing a long-term successor in this position.

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The defender already has experiencing of managing his side and he's got his teammates playing well this season. While the Newcastle players need no improvements, it would be wise to sign a long-term replacement for the captain's armband, if Howe doesn't have anyone in mind already.

Sangante's age doesn't define him as a player, though. He plays with maturity and isn't afraid to get stuck in as and when required. It's attributes like these which granted the youngster the captain's armbands, alongside his insane leadership qualities.

Coming through the academy of La Havre, it was Sangante's destiny to move to the Premier League, where his defensive exploits will be put to better use. Although, it won't be easy to convince his beloved club to part ways with him, since he is a valued member of the team having played in most matches this season.

What do you make of today's Newcastle transfer news?