“Newcastle’s Defensive Woes: Malick Thiaw Emerges as Key Target”
Although Newcastle is optimistic about improving Lloyd Kelly after securing him on a free transfer from Bournemouth, the defense remains problematic.
Eddie Howe highlighted a decline in the team’s defensive performance at the end of last season, noting a significant drop in standards.
Newcastle conceded 29 more goals last season than in the 2022-23 season and will be without Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles due to long-term injuries.
Tosin Adarabioyo was a target before he chose to join Chelsea, prompting the club to explore other options.
Malick Thiaw from AC Milan has been considered a “dream” signing by the club’s recruitment staff, who regard him as “brilliant.”
The club is reportedly confident about signing the German international.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano shared an update on Thiaw’s potential move to Newcastle.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano confirmed Newcastle’s interest in Thiaw, noting that the defender had an impressive first two seasons at Milan before his performance declined due to injury, which may have lowered his valuation.
Romano stated that Newcastle sees this as a good opportunity, believing in Thiaw’s significant potential.
“The appreciation of the player is 100% confirmed, he’s a player they really like,” he said.
“They believe he has big potential.
“He had a fantastic first two seasons at Milan, and last year he was not in the best shape, so that’s probably why the price dropped, and Newcastle believe that could be a nice opportunity for them.
“They already asked for Malick Thiaw at the end of June, when they were looking for opportunities for a potential swap deal with Milan for Financial Fair Play reasons. They tried to make that happen.”