Football journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Newcastle United have opened talks with AC Milan over defender Malick Thiaw.
The 22-year-old has generated interest from the Magpies as they have been looking to add a centre back this summer. Milan are listening to offers from the defender but have only received interest from Newcastle so far.
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Romano said: “[They are] also in for a centre-back, because they had some sort of conversation with AC Milan for Malick Thiaw – the German centre-back.
“He remains one of the players they appreciate, but I’m told they have a proper shortlist with three or four names for the new centre-back.”
Malick Thiaw had an impressive season for AC Milan, making 30 appearances in the Serie A and Champions League. The versatile defender can play at centre back, full back, and defensive midfield which would provide Eddie Howe with a very useful asset at the back.
The German defender has made three national appearances and is set to make many more as he’s only 22 years old.
How much will Newcastle United have to pay for Malick Thiaw?
Thiaw’s estimated transfer value sits at around £25 million which would likely be the minimum cost of Thiaw if Newcastle were to submit a bid.
As AC Milan has recently made a move for RB Salzburg defender Strahinja Pavlović, it seems as though Thiaw will be surplus to requirements at the San Siro which will give a boost to Newcastle’s chances of signing Thiaw.
Thiaw’s place in Newcastle United’s defence
Eddie Howe has already added Lewis Hall and Lloyd Kelly in defence this summer, but neither is likely to be the regular starting centre-back for the Magpies.
Howe will likely start Fabian Schar alongside Malick Thiaw should they decide to sign him before the season starts.
