Newcastle ‘Advancing’ in Malick Thiaw Pursuit

€40m Bid for AC Milan Star Brings Hope After Disastrous Summer Transfer Window

If you’ve been following Newcastle United’s summer, you’d be forgiven for thinking someone at St James’ Park broke a mirror, walked under a ladder, and spilled salt all at once. The club’s transfer window, up to now, has been a frustrating collection of near-misses and dashed hopes. But finally, there might be a breakthrough.

Reports out of Italy and England suggest Newcastle are advancing in their pursuit of Malick Thiaw, the 22-year-old German defender who has been a consistent presence for AC Milan over the past two seasons. After having their initial €30m offer rejected, the Magpies have now tabled an improved bid of €40m — and this time, it might just be enough to get the deal done.

From Frustration to Negotiation

Earlier in the week, Newcastle’s first approach was met with a firm “no” from the Rossoneri. Milan valued Thiaw closer to €45m, confident that the tall, composed centre-back still had years of growth ahead of him. That figure initially looked like a bridge too far for Newcastle, who have been cautious with spending due to Financial Fair Play pressures.

But Eddie Howe and the club’s recruitment team clearly see Thiaw as more than just another defensive option — they see him as a cornerstone. The improved €40m bid is a statement: Newcastle are serious, and they’re willing to meet Milan halfway.

According to Fabrizio Romano, talks between the two clubs are now in an advanced stage. Thiaw has already agreed to personal terms and given the green light for the move. All that remains is ironing out the finer details. If negotiations go smoothly, the transfer could be wrapped up next week.

Who Is Malick Thiaw?

For those who haven’t been tracking Serie A closely, Thiaw is a player who combines physical presence with tactical intelligence. Standing at 1.94m (6’4”), he’s an aerial threat on set pieces and a reassuring figure when defending deep. But unlike many tall defenders, he’s comfortable with the ball at his feet, able to start attacks from the back.

Since arriving at Milan from Schalke 04 in 2022, Thiaw has adapted quickly to the demands of Italian football. He has featured in the Champions League, faced some of Europe’s top forwards, and proven he can handle the pressure that comes with wearing the famous red and black shirt.

The Context: A Disastrous Summer So Far

The word “disastrous” isn’t thrown around lightly in football, but for Newcastle, it feels apt. This was supposed to be a window where the club strengthened for another Champions League push. Instead, it has been marked by missed opportunities:

• Hugo Ekitike chose Liverpool over a move to the North East.

• Benjamin Šeško decided on Manchester United.

• Several secondary targets either proved too expensive or uninterested.

The fans have grown restless, and the optimism from last season’s impressive campaign has been tempered by the reality of competing with Premier League giants in the transfer market.

That’s why the Malick Thiaw pursuit feels like more than just another signing — it feels like a potential turning point.

Why Newcastle Want Thiaw

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Eddie Howe has built his Newcastle side on a strong defensive foundation. Last season, they boasted one of the best defensive records in the league, but depth was an issue. Injuries to key players like Sven Botman exposed the lack of quality options at centre-back.

Thiaw fits the bill perfectly: young, physically imposing, and tactically versatile. He can slot into a back four or operate in a back three if Howe chooses to experiment. More importantly, his style of play — calm under pressure, disciplined in positioning — aligns with Newcastle’s defensive philosophy.

Milan’s Perspective

For AC Milan, this deal is as much about business as it is about football. The club has a reputation for developing and selling players at the right moment. While losing Thiaw would be a blow to their defensive depth, €40m represents a significant profit on a player they signed for a fraction of that price just three years ago.

Moreover, Milan’s summer plans include reinforcing their attack and midfield, and the funds from Thiaw’s sale could be redirected towards those targets.

Fan Reactions

As expected, news of Newcastle’s improved bid has stirred excitement among supporters. Social media has been filled with clips of Thiaw’s best moments at Milan, with fans already imagining him partnering Botman in a towering centre-back duo.

There’s also relief — genuine relief — that the club appears close to landing a key target after weeks of disappointment. For many, this transfer would restore some faith in the recruitment strategy and show that Newcastle can still compete for top-level talent.

What Happens Next

If the deal is finalised next week, Thiaw will likely be eased into pre-season preparations and could feature in Newcastle’s opening Premier League fixtures. His arrival would also allow Howe more tactical flexibility, potentially freeing up Dan Burn to play more at left-back or offering cover for Fabian Schär.

The signing wouldn’t solve all of Newcastle’s transfer needs — they still need a striker, and retaining Alexander Isak remains a priority — but it would be a huge step in the right direction.

Eddie Howe’s Balancing Act

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Howe is known for his meticulous planning, and the pursuit of Thiaw reflects that. Rather than panic-buying after missing out on Ekitike and Šeško, he has targeted a player who genuinely strengthens the squad.

However, there’s still pressure to deliver more before the window closes. Injuries, fixture congestion, and the demands of European football mean Newcastle need depth in multiple positions. Thiaw could be the first domino to fall in a busier final few weeks of the window.

Final Whistle Thoughts

Newcastle ‘advancing’ in Malick Thiaw pursuit isn’t just a transfer headline — it’s the story of a club desperate to get its summer back on track. €40m is a significant investment, but for a player of Thiaw’s profile and potential, it could prove a bargain in the long run.

If the Magpies can get this deal over the line, it will send a message: despite the frustrations, despite the setbacks, Newcastle are still a club with ambition. And maybe, just maybe, this is the signing that sparks a late surge of activity before the window shuts.

For now, fans will be refreshing their feeds, watching for that all-important “here we go” moment. Because after the summer they’ve had, St James’ Park could really use a reason to cheer.