PL arch-rivals join Liverpool in race for 21-year-old Ligue 1 star

Manchester City have joined the race alongside Liverpool to sign Sven Botman this summer

According to L’Equipe’s print edition (h/t Daily Mail), Liverpool have been joined by Manchester City in the race to sign Lille defender Sven Botman this summer.

Botman, who has been on Liverpool’s radar since January, has attracted interest from several English clubs this summer, including the likes of Manchester United, West Ham United, Newcastle, and now Man City. 

The 21-year-old was a crucial part of Lille’s Ligue 1 winning campaign last season as he helped his side keep an impressive 21 clean sheets, courtesy of which a number of clubs have been keeping tabs

Botman arrived at Lille from Ajax last year on a five-year deal, but the Reds wanted to sign the player in January itself, as they faced an injury crisis at the back. 

Botman, in turn, was also flattered by the rumours as he talked about his future in an interview with The Athletic (h/t Liverpool Echo).

“It is a good compliment when you hear these clubs are interested. I’m lying if I say it’s not interesting me — it’s the first time such big clubs are linked to me — but it was early days because in January I was only at Lille for half a season.

“It was nice to hear but I was focusing on Lille and I’m still doing this. After the season I will enjoy a vacation and see what happens next”.

More Liverpool News:

• Transfer News: Liverpool handed boost in race for Manuel Locatelli
• Alisson Becker in advanced talks over a new Liverpool contract
• Transfer News: Leeds United make £30m bid for Liverpool target Adama Traore

Although Liverpool have already signed Ibrahima Konaté from RB Leipzig this summer, they could strengthen their defence even more by signing a player like Sven Botman.

However, signing the player would not be as simple anymore as Manchester City would also compete with their full might for the player’s signature this summer.