Newcastle United in talks for 22-year-old Champions League star as transfer fee 'green light' revealed

The Magpies have shortlisted AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw as a potential centre-back addition this summer and have made contact with the Serie A side and the player’s representatives.

The 22-year-old defender made 30 appearances for AC Milan during the 2023-24 campaign and also earned his third cap for the German national team.

Now a report from Italy has claimed the asking price required for AC Milan to give the ‘green light’ for Thiaw to leave the club. Tutto Mercato have reported that an offer of around £25million would be enough for Milan to accept.

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Thiaw was an important part of Milan’s squad last season as they finished second in Serie A and reached the Europa League quarter-final following a Champions League group stage exit last season. The Germany centre-back started against Newcastle during the 0-0 Champions League group stage draw at the San Siro back in September.

But he was injured for the reverse fixture at St James’ Park as Milan came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 and knock Newcastle out of Europe entirely.

Eddie Howe’s side have already confirmed two defensive signings this summer with Lloyd Kelly joining the club following his release from AFC Bournemouth and Lewis Hall’s loan move from Chelsea becoming permanent.

But Newcastle remain keen on bolstering their defensive options with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles both recovering from long-term ACL injuries. Lascelles, Trippier, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn and Fabian Schar are also into the final year of their contracts at St James’ Park.