“Newcastle Eyes Major Summer Signing: Milan’s Malick Thiaw in Their Sights”
Italian sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reports on his website that Newcastle United is keen on signing another center-back this summer, following Lloyd Kelly’s free transfer from AFC Bournemouth. With both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles out with ACL injuries, Newcastle’s defense is lacking experienced players. Kelly provides cover on the left, while Fabian Schar is the sole recognized option on the right, and Malick Thiaw is being considered as a potential recruit.
Di Marzio indicates that Newcastle has intensified their pursuit of Thiaw, who is highly regarded by the new sporting director, Paul Mitchell. Although no official bid has been made yet, Newcastle’s interest is strong.
He wrote: “The Milan transfer market continues, and after confirming the purchase of Alvaro Morata, the Rossoneri aim to further strengthen their squad. Meanwhile, Newcastle has renewed its interest in Malick Thiaw.
“Newcastle had been tracking the German defender earlier this summer and might now pursue him vigorously. As of now, no official offers have been made to Milan, but the English club’s interest remains high. Thiaw, born in 2001, is particularly favored by new sporting director Paul Mitchell.”
Thiaw, who made 30 appearances for Milan last season, including a Champions League match against Newcastle, missed the reverse fixture due to a hamstring injury. According to SportMediaset via Tuttomercato, Thiaw is not deemed unsellable by Milan, and the club may accept an offer between £21 million and £25 million. Thiaw, under contract with Milan until 2027 after joining from Schalke 04 two years ago, has made 54 appearances for the club.