Ross Wilson is about to do a deal at Newcastle which leaves them set for half a decade

Newcastle announced Ross Wilson as their new Director of Football on Saturday, and he is already hard at work.

TBR Football understand the man born in Falkirk is finalising a new contract for Sven Botman as he begins the task of tying down Eddie Howe’s best players.

The Magpies are also hopeful of agreeing new deals with Sandro Tonali and Tino Livramento before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Once Ross Wilson strikes a full agreement with Sven Botman, it will mark a special moment for Newcastle in one department.

The centre of defence at Newcastle looks spectacular ahead of the next five years

Before Wilson arrived, Newcastle completed the £35m signing of Malick Thiaw from AC Milan on a deal running until July 2029.

The Germany international is a fantastic talent who is still just 24 years of age, suggesting he is far from reaching his peak in football.

Not only that, but Botman himself is only 25, so the duo can focus on fulfilling their immense potential at Newcastle for the foreseeable future once the Netherlands international signs his new contract.

There is still work to be done in between the sticks after Newcastle failed to sign James Trafford from Burnley during the summer, but the centre of defence looks very healthy indeed.

Sven Botman has already given Malick Thiaw a task

The precocious duo have only made six appearances together for Newcastle so far, winning three and drawing one – while narrowly losing to Arsenal and Barcelona.

However, demands are already being made.

Botman urged Thiaw to “score” after the Magpies defeated Nottingham Forest 2-0 last time out, eager to see his new defensive partner get amongst the goals.

The Dutchman himself only has two goals in 84 games for Newcastle, so perhaps he ought to listen to his own advice before telling the German to get on the scoresheet.

Click here to read article