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NewCastle United was reportedly interested in Giorgio Scalvini for the Premier League this summer, despite the fact that he endured an injury-ravaged campaign last year. The Magpies were viewing him as a potential long-term successor to Fabian Schar, who will turn 34 in December. But these speculations were soon turned down as Atalanta appeared to have zero interest in selling Scalvini. As the offer for Scalvini was soon turned off, NewCastle still have a task to solve their centre-back dilemma.
In order to address their defense vulnerabilities ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League and Champions League, Newcastle United are poised to make a fresh approach for AC Milan’s centre-back Malick Thiaw. According to recent reports, Newcastle are preparing to open talks with the Serie A side to discuss a potential transfer fee of “25 million euros” for the 23-year-old German international, who has emerged as a key target for Eddie Howe’s side. This move comes after Thiaw’s proposed transfer to Como collapsed in July, leaving the door open for Premier League clubs to pursue the versatile defender.
Milan has reportedly kept an asking price for Thiaw around £30 million for English clubs
The collapse of Thiaw’s reported £21 million move to Como, has significantly boosted Newcastle’s chances. Thiaw rejected the transfer, prioritizing a move to a club competing in European competitions, a criterion Newcastle meet with their Champions League qualification for the upcoming season. However, it is claimed that Newcastle face challenges in securing Thiaw’s signature. Reports suggest Milan have raised their asking price for Thiaw to around £30 million when dealing with English clubs. This price hike reflects Milan’s reluctance to lose a player who has become integral to Allegri’s plans, especially after his standout performances, including scoring in a 3-2 Champions League victory over Real Madrid in November 2024.
Malick Thiaw, has been an extraordinary performer for Milan since joining from Schalke 04 in 2022, has reportedly long been on Newcastle’s radar. The Magpies’ interest in the 6ft 4in centre-back dates back to June 2023, when club scouts first identified him as a potential long-term addition to their backline. Last summer, it was reported that Newcastle briefly turned their attention to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi but walked away due to the Eagles’ steep valuation. Now, with Thiaw’s situation at Milan evolving, Newcastle are appearing as ready to capitalize, with sources indicating that initial discussions with the player’s representatives and Milan are imminent.
