In a recent print edition, Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness) stated that Newcastle United are keeping a keen eye on AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw. It has been revealed that the Magpies would have to pay €40m to acquire the services of the German centre-back this summer.
Thiaw’s Impressive Form In Serie A Last Season
The 22-year-old was a solid presence at the heart of AC Milan’s backline in the previous campaign when he put in a run of dominant displays in Serie A. Thiaw played in 30 matches for his current club last season, securing one assist in multiple competitions.
The German talent was solid when defending inside his half as he averaged 1.6 tackles, 0.6 interceptions and 2.6 clearances per game in Serie A. He was even tidy when distributing possession from the back based on his pass success rate of 91.6% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Milan club will run out in the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for Newcastle to sign him on a cut-price deal this off-season.
Is Thiaw A Decent Choice For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Thiaw is a tough-tackling defender who can read the danger well to earn the ball back for his side on the defensive end of the pitch. He doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when the opposition are on the offensive and is even proficient at playing his way out from inside his half.
Standing at 1.94m, the German talent can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. He mainly operates as a central defender but can also play as a holding midfielder or function as a right-back if told to do so.
Thiaw would add more bite and steel to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s defence. He is more than capable of fighting for a regular first-team spot at the Tyneside club next season.
At 22, Thiaw has got a bright future ahead of him and could prove to be an excellent choice for the Magpies to pursue in the long run. However, there are some concerns over whether he can cope with the high intensity of Premier League football if Newcastle manage to sign him this summer.
