Chelsea are interested in signing Newcastle United centre-back Sven Botman, according to reports.

The Chronicle reporter Lee Ryder claims that the Blues are “long-term admirers” of the Dutchman, while Liverpool are keeping tabs on the defender as well.

Botman is closing in on the final 18 months of his contract at St James’ Park, and at this stage, there are no talks over an extension.

While the 25-year-old is said to be open to signing a new deal, the fact that discussions are not taking place does provide the opportunity for rivals to swoop in and take advantage of the situation.

Botman’s manager has been fulsome in his praise of the player

Speaking after the 4-0 win over Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League last month, Magpies boss Eddie Howe said:

“I think he’s been really good. I think this is the best we’ve seen of Sven since his injury. Very, very pleased with the three games that he’s had because that is a big physical ask for him.”

“Today, I thought he was outstanding. I think himself and Malick [Thiaw] at the heart of the defence used the ball really well and that was a big part of how we controlled the game.”

Maresca wants Chelsea to sign another centre-half

Speaking shortly after Levi Colwill suffered what could be a season-ending injury back in August, head coach Enzo Maresca expressed a desire for the Blues to bring in reinforcements.

Maresca’s calls went unheeded, but it appears that Botman is someone that the club could target either in January or at the end of the season if it appears that he will not put pen to paper on a contract extension.

It is believed that the Newcastle star is earning just £90,000 a week at the moment, so agreeing personal terms won’t be an issue.

Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here