Newcastle United have finalized the arrival of defender Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.
The 24-year-old German international joins Eddie Howe’s squad for a reported £34.6m fee, which includes potential add-ons. He becomes the club’s third signing during a challenging transfer window, following the captures of winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who has joined on loan from Southampton.
Thiaw expressed his excitement at the move, saying he is eager to train, meet his new teammates, and work with the staff. He credited manager Howe’s vision for both his role and the club’s direction as a major reason for joining.
Summer transfer challenges
Strengthening the center of defense was a key objective for Newcastle this summer, with Howe aiming to create greater competition for places while reducing the average age of the squad.
However, sealing new additions has not been straightforward. The Magpies have missed out on several intended signings across multiple positions, including Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, and James Trafford.
The club’s transfer activity has taken place against the backdrop of uncertainty surrounding forward Alexander Isak, who is reportedly determined to move to Liverpool.
Experience and expectations
Manager Howe described Thiaw as a player he has long admired, praising his quality and noting the value of his experience in the Champions League and in both the Bundesliga and Serie A. Howe sees these attributes as a major advantage as Newcastle prepares for a return to European competition this season.
Thiaw, capped three times for Germany, moved to AC Milan from Schalke in 2022. Last season, he featured 31 times in all competitions for the Italian club and scored his only goal of the campaign in a Champions League match against Real Madrid in November.
Newcastle will begin their Premier League season with an away match against Aston Villa on Saturday.
