Newcastle Agrees £35m Transfer for AC Milan Defender Malick Thiaw

Newcastle United have reached an agreement with AC Milan to sign German defender Malick Thiaw for a fee around £35 million, with the player undergoing medical examinations ahead of the move. Thiaw, 24, who joined Milan from Schalke in 2022, brings versatility to the Magpies' defense, capable of playing as a centre-back, right-back, or defensive midfielder, and is expected to compete for a starting spot amid an aging defensive lineup. The transfer marks Newcastle's third significant signing this summer, following acquisitions of winger Anthony Elanga and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, as the club aims to strengthen ahead of the Premier League campaign. Thiaw's decision to join Newcastle was pivotal, as Milan had initially tried to retain him with a new contract, but his desire to play in the Premier League prevailed. This signing effectively ends Newcastle's pursuit of Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi, while the club also focuses on resolving uncertainties in their attacking roster, including the situation with striker Alexander Isak. Newcastle's manager Eddie Howe highlighted ongoing challenges related to Premier League squad registration rules, underscoring the club's cautious approach to transfers.