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Newcastle United are close to signing Atlético Madrid right-back Kieran Trippier and still want to further strengthen their defence in the winter market.

For the past few weeks, various reports have explained the Tyneside club’s interest in Lille’s Sven Botman, who is also wanted by AC Milan.

On Wednesday, Gianluca Di Marzio reported Eddie Howe’s side have made a proposal of €30m to the Ligue 1 club. The Rossoneri, however, don’t want to give up on him.

Simon Kjær’s serious injury setback has forced Stefano Pioli’s side to look for a centre-back in January and the Dutchman is their favourite target, according to Calciomercato. The Italian club are joined by the Magpies in the chase for the Lille man.

Milan have already made contact with the leaders of the French club as there was a ‘first meeting three days ago’. It’s said the 21-year-old ‘snubbed the rich, but unattractive Newcastle’.

Indeed, the San Siro club and Lille have held talks, but the latter are demanding €30-35m, which is a ‘high sum’ for Milan. Therefore, they are also looking at other options in the ongoing window.