DONE DEAL IMMINENT FOR NEWCASTLE AS UCL STAR GREENLIGHTS MOVE- Newcastle United set to sign 22-year-old Champions League star as transfer fee ‘green light’ revealed
Newcastle United have been informed of the price tag for one of their prime defensive targets this summer. The Magpies, under the management of Eddie Howe, are keen on strengthening their backline and have shortlisted AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw as a potential addition. The club has initiated contact with both the Serie A side and Thiaw’s representatives to explore the possibility of bringing the talented defender to St James’ Park.
Malick Thiaw, a 22-year-old center-back, had an impressive 2023-24 season with AC Milan, making 30 appearances. His solid performances on the club stage also earned him his third cap for the German national team, highlighting his growing reputation in European football. Reports from Italy, specifically Tutto Mercato, suggest that an offer in the region of £25 million would be sufficient for AC Milan to consider parting ways with the promising defender.
Thiaw played a crucial role in Milan’s successful campaign last season. The club finished second in Serie A, demonstrating their domestic strength, and made it to the Europa League quarter-finals after an early exit from the Champions League group stage. Thiaw’s defensive skills and composure on the ball were evident in crucial matches, including a notable performance against Newcastle United in a 0-0 draw at the San Siro in September. This match was a key fixture in the Champions League group stage, and Thiaw’s contribution was instrumental in securing a clean sheet for his team.
Unfortunately, Thiaw missed the return fixture at St James’ Park due to injury. In his absence, AC Milan managed to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory, coming from behind to knock Newcastle out of European competition entirely. This game highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses in Newcastle’s defense, emphasizing the need for reinforcements.
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle has already made strides in strengthening their defense this summer. The club has confirmed two defensive signings: Lloyd Kelly joined the squad on a free transfer after his release from AFC Bournemouth, and Lewis Hall’s loan move from Chelsea was made permanent. Kelly’s versatility and experience, combined with Hall’s youthful energy and potential, are seen as valuable additions to the team.
Despite these additions, the Magpies are still eager to bolster their defensive options further. This urgency is fueled by the long-term ACL injuries of Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, two key defenders whose absence has left a gap in the team’s defensive stability. Botman, known for his aerial prowess and tackling ability, and Lascelles, the club captain with his leadership qualities, are both crucial to Newcastle’s plans. Their recovery and return to form are uncertain, necessitating additional cover in the defensive lineup.
Moreover, several other defenders, including Lascelles, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn, and Fabian Schar, are entering the final year of their contracts at St James’ Park. This situation adds an extra layer of urgency for Newcastle to secure long-term defensive solutions to ensure depth and stability in their backline for the upcoming season and beyond.
Securing Malick Thiaw would be a significant step in this direction. The young German defender’s combination of physicality, tactical awareness, and ball-playing ability makes him an ideal fit for Howe’s system. His performances in Serie A and on the international stage suggest that he has the potential to develop into a top-class center-back.
As the transfer window progresses, Newcastle United will continue to monitor the situation and explore all avenues to strengthen their squad. The potential acquisition of Thiaw reflects the club’s ambition to compete at the highest levels of domestic and European football. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further developments, hopeful that the Magpies can secure the defensive reinforcements needed to build on last season’s successes and achieve even greater heights in the upcoming campaign.