Wolves have suffered a blow in their quest to sign Lille centre-back Sven Botman, with Newcastle United linked with a move for the Dutchman.

The Lowdown: Wolves keen on Botman signing

Bruno Lage's side are still stinging after Saturday's late 1-0 defeat at home to Liverpool but they must ensure it doesn't derail their season.

The hope is that new signings are made in the January transfer window and Botman is someone who has been linked with a move to Molineux.

The 21-year-old has started 10 Ligue 1 games for Lille so far this season and is considered a hugely promising young defender, being described as 'brilliant' by journalist Robin Bairner earlier this year.

The Latest: Newcastle emerge as contenders

Wolves now face competition in the race to sign Botman, however, with The Athletic's David Ornstein confirming on Twitter that Newcastle are 'exploring the possibility' of signing the nine-time capped Netherlands international in January.

Lille want to keep hold of the youngster until next summer but their head may be turned if an 'exceptional' offer arrives before then - surely worrying news for the likes of Wolves given the riches at Newcastle's disposal.

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The Verdict: Potential big blow

In past circumstances, this news may not have been too big a blow for Wolves, with Newcastle not necessarily a more exciting proposition than them.

The Magpies have of course been taken over and are now extremely wealthy, though, so they may be able to offer Botman far higher wages than Fosun and co would even want to.

It would be a big blow to lose out on someone who appears to be a primary transfer target - the player himself even confirmed the interested - with the Lille man averaging an impressive 2.5 aerial duel wins per game in both the Champions League and Ligue 1 this season.

He has also completed 91.3% of his passes in Europe's top competition, showing that he is strong in the air and talented on the ball.

In other news, a pundit is unsure about one rumoured Wolves transfer happening. Read more here.