Sven Botman was linked with a move to Manchester United again this week.
The Mirror had claimed in February that United had sent scouts to watch the Dutch defender in action for Lille.
Botman is enjoying a breakout season for the French side after a summer move from Ajax, with his side conceding the fewest goals in Ligue 1.
Fabrizio Romano this week insisted Botman remains on United’s radar with a view to a summer deal.
The Dutchman is a talented prospect United are right to be considering. Here is a look at three reasons why he stands out and ticks the boxes the club are looking for…
Left-footed
Sven Botman is left-footed, a trait United are reportedly high on when it comes to signing a centre-back.
It was even claimed by ESPN that this was one of the reasons United pulled out of a move for Dayot Upamecano as he is right-footed. That was probably just face-saving from United, but it helps illustrate what United want from the next centre-back to join the club.
Botman isn’t the only option. Benoit Badiashile of Monaco and Pau Torres of Villarreal are also left-footed and have been linked, but he is a player United clearly appear to be considering.
A move for Botman would provide United’s defence extra balance, and this appears to be a priority for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Style of play
Botman’s style of play ticks the boxes for United on two counts. He is strong in the air, winning 3.6 aerial duels per game this season.
He is also very comfortable with the ball at his feet, to which he credits his time in the Ajax academy.
Botman told FCUpdate last week: “Ajax demands a lot from defenders who come under pressure. I myself have the strength and qualities to be good in duels, but Ajax has brought me a lot of possession. If you give me the ball, I can do something good with it.”
Age profile
Botman would be a good investment considering he is still only 21-years-old.
This past week he has been impressing for the Dutch under-21 side at the European Championships, getting on the scoresheet too.
He fits the mould of talented, young players United want to buy, and grow into a successful team of the future.
Botman has no injury issues, playing 29 league games this season, as opposed to Ibrahima Konate’s paltry tally of four for RB Leipzig.
Signing a young talent may be preferable to United than investing in a potentially waning star like Raphael Varane, who would probably be more expensive too.
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