Newcastle have made a €30 million offer for AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw — but the Italian club have no intention of selling the 22-year-old defender, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Thiaw, a Germany international, impressed during Milan’s summer tour, catching the eye of new head coach Max Allegri. The former Juventus manager is believed to have expressed a strong desire to keep the centre-back, blocking any potential transfer.
Eddie Howe's side are continuing their defensive rebuild after the departure of Sven Botman due to injury, and see Thiaw as a long-term solution. However, Milan remain firm, viewing him as part of their future.
Why Newcastle Are Targeting Malick Thiaw
Newcastle’s defensive concerns have grown after a rocky second half of last season. With Botman sidelined and FFP constraints limiting options, the Magpies are turning to Europe’s elite for value.
Thiaw, who made 25 appearances last season across all competitions, offers physicality, composure on the ball, and aerial dominance — a profile that fits perfectly into Howe’s high-pressing back line.
Since arriving from Schalke in 2022, Thiaw has grown into a regular starter for Milan. His maturity and tactical discipline make him a rare asset in Serie A — and someone Allegri reportedly sees as a future leader in defence. “We’ve already seen what Thiaw can become — he’s calm, athletic, and improving every week,” said a Milan source after the U.S. tour. — La Gazzetta dello Sport
Malick Thiaw – 2024/25 Season Stats
| Competition | Appearances | Clean Sheets | Tackles p/90 | Aerial Duels Won % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 21 | 9 | 2.1 | 71% |
| Champions League | 4 | 1 | 1.9 | 68% |
Analyst Verdict: Milan Right to Hold Firm
With Milan in transition and Allegri building from the back, selling Thiaw now would be short-sighted. For Newcastle, it’s a missed chance — but also a reminder that the club’s pulling power still lags behind Europe’s top-tier sides in key battles.
Key Insights
- Newcastle bid €30m for Malick Thiaw, per La Gazzetta
- Milan rejected the offer after Max Allegri’s intervention
- Thiaw is seen as a long-term starter at San Siro
- Newcastle still searching for Botman replacement
What’s Next?
Newcastle are expected to explore alternative centre-back targets after Milan rejected their €30m bid for Malick Thiaw.
With Eddie Howe keen to reinforce his back line before the window closes, the Magpies could return with an improved offer — or pivot towards players like Arthur Theate or Lloyd Kelly, who remain on the club’s shortlist.
Meanwhile, Milan’s stance signals Allegri’s intent to rebuild with defensive continuity, making further Serie A departures less likely this summer.
Should Newcastle raise their bid — or focus on other targets?
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