In a recent tweet, The Daily Telegraph’s Luke Edwards mentioned that Newcastle United could get a deal done for AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw. It has been stated that the Magpies are eyeing a move to bring the German centre-back to St. James’ Park this summer.
Thiaw’s Impressive Form In Italian Football
Thiaw had a solid campaign at the Milan club as he managed to produce a run of impressive performances for them on the defensive third of the pitch. The 22-year-old made 30 appearances for AC Milan last season, securing one assist in all competitions.
The German talent was a rock at the back for the Italian giants based on his average of 1.6 tackles, 0.6 interceptions and 2.6 clearances per game in Serie A. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from inside his half after completing 91.6% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Italian football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the San Siro will run out in the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for the Magpies to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Go For Thiaw?
Thiaw is a solid tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot. Standing at 1.94m, the German talent can use his strong frame to win a few 50-50 aerial duels for his team. He excels at playing his way out from the back.
We can expect Thiaw to inject more bite and steel into Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe’s defence. He has what it takes to help the Magpies compete across all fronts in the coming years.
At 22, Thiaw has the potential to be a future star in English football. Therefore, the Tyneside club should focus on going for a defender of his skillset in this transfer window. However, there are some concerns over whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League if Howe manages to bring him on board this off-season.
