Rumoured Wolves transfer target Sven Botman looks almost certain to be staying put at Lille for the rest of the season, according to journalist David Ornstein.

The Lowdown: Botman linked with Wolves move

Wanderers have been linked with a move for the Dutchman a number of times in recent weeks, with Bruno Lage possibly seeing him as an ideal centre-back addition.

Newcastle United have also been strongly tipped to sign Botman, with the towering 21-year-old continuing to impress for Lille and being hailed as a 'great player' by five-time European Cup winner Paolo Maldini.

However, the reigning Ligue 1 champions very much want to keep hold of the youngster, and his current deal doesn't expire until the summer of 2025.

The Latest: Ornstein delivers Botman blow

Wolves have now suffered a significant blow in their quest to snap up Botman, with The Athletic's reliable correspondent David Ornstein reporting that Lille are refusing to sell the defender in the January transfer window, declining to even hold talks with any suitors.

The French champions want him to remain at the club until the summer, at which point the situation may change.

The Verdict: Look elsewhere instead

In truth, it looked increasingly unlikely that Wolves would get their man, especially once mega-rich Newcastle entered the equation, given their ability to offer higher wages.

Lage must now look at another centre-back option instead as he looks to increase competition for first-choice trio Max Kilman, Conor Coady and Romain Saiss.

It wouldn't be a disaster to not sign another central defender in January, but with Willy Boly experiencing medical issues, it would certainly be risky to leave that area short of options if any of the usual back three were to be rendered unavailable for a period of time.

In other news, a journalist has backed Wolves to complete the signing of one player. Find out who it is here.