Newcastle plot new contract for Liverpool target to avoid Alexander Isak repeat | OneFootball

Liverpool are currently assessing different possible transfer options ahead of January.

In addition to a number of positions being missed off last summer's shopping list, the Reds have picked up a few injuries this season, making it far more likely that we'll see more transfer business.

Centre-back is a position of major concern, with Giovanni Leoni set to miss most of the season with an ACL tear and as such, the Reds are doing their due-diligence in creating a shortlist to consider.

Botman will be offered a new deal

One of those targets was 25-year-old Sven Botman at Newcastle, who is set to be out of contract in 2027, meaning he's likely to be assessing his options in the near future. Liverpool were interested.

The Dutchman has been playing consistently under Eddie Howe this season, after his previous campaign was severely impacted by injuries, and it's clear to see that he's relishing the chance.

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As such, it shouldn't necessarily come as a surprise that Caught Offside are now reporting that the Magpies' new sporting director Ross Wilson is looking to pin him down with a contract extension.

The talks are expected to begin in a few weeks, which would certainly dampen the spirits of Chelsea, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool, who were all known as interested parties.

Whether it's at all possible that Botman would have been available in January is unknown, and the likelihood that Liverpool would have been entertained as a potential suitor is unlikely after the Alexander Isak saga went south last summer. The two clubs are exactly on great terms right now.

Nonetheless, if a new deal is agreed, then Liverpool will have to look elsewhere for a new defender.

Getting your targets when there is plenty of time over the summer is one thing, but having the limited confines of January, with rival clubs knowing how desperate you are for the player, is another thing.