Newcastle United are closing in on German international and AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw.
Malick Thiaw reportedly snubbed a fresh contract at AC Milan before deciding on Newcastle United.
NewcastleWorld understands the German is heading to Tyneside tomorrow for a medical ahead of completing a £35million move. It is no secret that the Magpies have pursued a centre-back for a while.
Marc Guehi was the transfer saga of the summer 12 months ago, with Newcastle failing to land their top target. Dan Burn and Fabian Schar - who both turn 34 next season - were relied on heavily last year.
Malick Thiaw heading to Newcastle United
Sven Botman’s persistent injury concerns are another reason for the Magpies to sign a centre-back. Thiaw was linked last summer and Newcastle look set to finally get their man.
It is known that the German international will head to the North East for a medical tomorrow. A fee worth around £35million has been agreed - giving United a much-needed transfer breakthrough.
Newcastle have struggled to land several key targets - mainly in attacking areas. As for defenders, Thiaw is the first centre-back the Magpies have formally made an offer for.
He will become the second Milan star Newcastle have nabbed in recent years. Sandro Tonali arrived in 2023 and, despite a rocky start due to his gambling ban, now enjoys cult-hero status at St James’ Park.
AC Milan proposed contract
Sky Italia claim Milan readied a fresh contract for Thiaw to keep him at the San Siro. Sporting director Igli Tare tried to convince the 24-year-old to stay on new boss Massimiliano Allegri’s orders.
The move proved futile, with Newcastle already his preferred destination. By the standards seen so far this window, the deal has materialised relatively quickly, with Thiaw set to fulfil his Premier League dream.
‘Controlled by PSR’ - Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe once again highlighted PSR issues following Newcastle’s pre-season defeat to Atletico Madrid. He told reporters yesterday: "We're controlled by PSR," Howe said after the defeat at St James' Park. "That's still limiting what we can do and that's the reality.
"I've said many times, we're not the highest payers in the league. We're far from it and that is sometimes reflected in the choices players make.
"I don't think there's many players who have come here and haven't benefitted from the experience Newcastle can give you.
"Playing in front of these supporters, that's an absolute privilege and an honour that's never lost on me. It's a special place to be. Some players have a different choice. Finances play a part in that."
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