EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle move closer to Malick Thiaw deal after new AC Milan offer

Newcastle United have launched an improved offer in excess of £30m for AC Milan centre-back Malick Thiaw.
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Last month, NUFCBlog were the first to reveal that Newcastle had reignited their interest in the 24-year-old, with our focus shifting back to the German international after extensive scouting and a two-year pursuit.
A move for Thiaw was seriously considered last summer before Eddie Howe pushed for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi instead, but a formal approach has been made over the past week, with reports in Germany and Italy signalling an initial bid worth £26m.
That opening proposal fell below Milan’s asking price, which has now risen well beyond the £21.5m agreed with Como last month after new boss Max Allegri was impressed by Thiaw’s pre-season performances over the past fortnight.
That has not helped matters in Newcastle’s bid to tie up a deal quickly, with this turn of events typical of a summer full of transfer frustrations on Tyneside.
However, there is genuine hope a deal can be agreed despite Milan’s attempts to drive up the price as Newcastle move quickly to reach an agreement.
Newcastle believe the player is keen to join and there is confidence that the new offer – just north of £30m – could be enough to tempt Milan, with Thiaw already agreeing personal terms in a clear indication he is ready to make the move should both parties strike a deal.
Milan missed out on European football for the 2025/26 campaign after finishing eighth in Serie A last season, meaning a move to Tyneside will not only offer Thiaw another taste of Champions League football, but also the chance to reunite with former teammate Sandro Tonali.
At 6ft 4″, with a big frame, deceptive turn of pace and composure in possession, Thiaw has the makings of a top Premier League centre-back and the potential to develop into the ideal long-term partner for Sven Botman with a little help from Eddie Howe.
Quizzed on links to the former Schalke talent last July, Howe said: “I’m always reluctant to comment on these things, but he’s a player I know about.”
“Of course I do, from our games in the Champions League against Milan and yeah, he’s a very good player, but that’s it.”
AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw in action against Newcastle United in the Champions League.
Exclusive: Newcastle Receive Yoane Wissa Transfer Boost

Brentford head coach Keith Andrews, striker Yoane Wissa and Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe
Brentford forward Yoane Wissa has held direct talks with manager Keith Andrews, amid interest from Newcastle United, GIVEMESPORT sources have confirmed on the Market Madness podcast.
Newcastle are in the market for a new centre-forward in the summer transfer window, with speculation surrounding the future of Alexander Isak, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool. The Magpies have been linked with a host of different striker options, and Wissa is one they’ve been pushing for over the last few weeks.
Wissa Holds Talks With Andrews Amid Newcastle Interest
Brentford respected his decision to leave
Yoane Wissa celebrating after scoring for Brentford
According to GIVEMESPORT sources, Wissa held direct talks with Brentford boss Andrews on Tuesday, with the striker reiterating his desire to leave the club in the summer transfer window. Wissa’s position is now respected by the club, meaning they could allow him to depart, providing they find a replacement.
Yoane Wissa’s statistics for Brentford during the 2024/25 campaign
Wissa is asking to leave the club for around £40m, and Brentford’s price is now expected to drop south of £50m, despite quoting this number to Newcastle previously. Newcastle have seen a £25m bid rejected and also made a verbal offer of £30m plus £5m in add-ons.
Eddie Howe’s side are prepared to return with another offer, especially now Benjamin Sesko is set to join Manchester United, pending a club-to-club agreement. Wissa also has Saudi options, but he’s prioritising Premier League as it stands.
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Brentford Eyeing Hutchinson and Vardy
Tottenham interested in Wissa
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There is no indication, GIVEMESPORT understands, whether Tottenham Hotspur will formalise their interest in Wissa. Nottingham Forest could potentially try again if they don’t get Omari Hutchinson. The Ipswich Town winger is also a target for Brentford, and he’s likely to cost over £40m, with some sources hinting £50m.
Brentford have discussed whether to offer Jamie Vardy a short-term deal, after he left Leicester City following the expiration of his contract. There has been no approach to the former England international yet, but he is keen to stay in the Premier League despite links with Championship clubs.
Vardy is prepared to drop his wage for the right team.
All statistics courtesy of SofaScore – correct as of 07/08/2025