United face fight to retain Botman

United defensive lynchpin Sven Botman is attracting attention from Liverpool and Chelsea - but remains content with life on Tyneside.

- By LEE RYDER Chief Newcastle writer

Botman has just shaken off a couple of injury-ravaged seasons and is getting back to his best form in a black and white shirt. The Dutchman, who has remarkably been overlooked by his national team boss Ronald Koeman ahead of the World Cup, has gelled perfectly with Malick Thiaw.

Botman is on a list of stars edging closer to the end of their existing contracts at United, with 2027 believed to be the end date of his current deal.

The ex-Ajax youngster is open to discussing a new deal and is currently not one of the top earners at St James’ Park.