AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw in action against Newcastle United in the Champions League.placeholder image
AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw in action against Newcastle United in the Champions League. | Getty Images
Newcastle United have the opportunity to hijack the transfer.
That’s according to Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, who also claims Thiaw is interested in a transfer to the Premier League after three years in Italy.
The 23 -year-old German joined Milan from Schalke 04 in 2022 and has gone on to make 85 appearances. That included a Champions League game against Newcastle when the two sides played out a goalless draw at the San Siro in September 2023.
Malick Thiaw heavily linked with Newcastle United in 2024
Thiaw was heavily linked with the Magpies last summer. At one stage, his agent, Gordon Stipic, was even forced to publicly deny reports that the 23-year-old was set to move to St James’ Park.
When asked about the speculation surrounding Thiaw, Eddie Howe told NewcastleWorld: “No, there’s no update on that”.
Pressed further, Howe admitted he was a fan of the player. He added: “I’m always reluctant to comment but he is a player that I know about of course from our games in the Champions League against Milan and yeah, he is a very good player.”
Despite the loud noises, nothing materialised. United turned their attention to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi but were forced to walk away from a deal due to the Eagles’ high demands.
Newcastle United can hijack Malick Thiaw move
Many had expected Newcastle to go back in for Guehi this summer, given he was previously their number one target, but as revealed by NewcastleWorld, they have cooled their interest and are now looking at options on the continent.
And Moretto claims Thiaw is again under consideration, raising the possibility of a transfer hijack.
Read More
Milan last month agreed to sell the 23-year-old to Como for £21million, however a move is in doubt with Thiaw yet to agree personal terms. It’s claimed the player favours a switch to a team that will be competing in Europe next season.
Moretto, as relayed by MilanNews, said: “The more time passes, the more difficult it is for Thiaw to say yes to Como. They tell me that it is true that Como is doing everything and more to try to convince him, but the German would like to continue playing in a European competition, if possible.
“There is some appreciation from the Premier League. Last year Newcastle were looking for Thiaw and today Newcastle is still looking for a central defender.
“So keep an eye on this path, at the moment there is nothing concrete, but I can confirm that Newcastle is also evaluating Thiaw, who, in addition to returning to Germany, would be interested in an experience in the Premier League.”
Newcastle United linked with Marseille defender
Another overseas defender linked with Newcastle this week is Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi, with the Daily Mail reporting that a £35m deal is being explore.
Balerdi started his career at Boca Juniors before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2019. But after managing just eight appearances, the defender was loaned to Marseille and later completed a permanent switch.
The 26-year-old has made 164 appearances for the French giants and last season captained the side as they finished runners up behind Paris Saint-Germain.
Continue Reading