Newcastle United are currently fourth in the Premier League table, and with just one game to go, they will look to ensure a top-five finish, as it could have a significant impact on their summer transfer business. Securing UEFA Champions League football could go a long way in helping them keep hold of some of their stars and, at the same time, aid their pursuit of big-name targets.
While Eddie Howe will certainly look to address multiple issues in the summer, he will prioritise the reinforcement of his defence. According to a report from Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, the Magpies have their eyes set on AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw, and they have already stepped up their interest in him.
Thiaw came up the ranks at Schalke and made a name for himself while playing for their first team before joining AC Milan in the summer of 2022. The 23-year-old centre-back has only gone from strength to strength in the last few seasons and has established himself as a key figure in their team.
His impressive performances have helped him break into the German national team, and it has also put him on the radar of quite a few top clubs. Newcastle United are one of the clubs that have a long-standing interest in Malick Thiaw.
The Magpies wanted to sign the German centre-back last summer, and they were reportedly very close to securing his services. Newcastle United were in talks with his agents, but things did not work out, as AC Milan eventually decided to keep him at the club.
The Tyneside club remain interested in his signature, and they are ready to once again try to lure him. Eddie Howe, who previously expressed his admiration for Malick Thiaw, is keen on having him in his squad as he looks to add more quality to his backline.
Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are both 33, and their contracts run out in 2026. As a result, the Magpies do need to plan for the long run. Thiaw could be just the perfect signing for their project, and he could become an integral part of their first team going forward.
Newcastle United have already revived their interest in him and are in talks with AC Milan regarding a potential move this summer. The 23-year-old is expected to be available for a fee of around £25 million, which should not be a problem for the Tyneside club if they secure Champions League football.