Newcastle United Secure Malick Thiaw in Major Summer Transfer

Newcastle United have signed German defender Malick Thiaw from AC Milan. They paid €40 million in total. Thiaw signed a four-year contract with the Magpies. He will help Newcastle’s defense for the new Premier League and Champions League seasons.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Thiaw, 23, comes to St. James’ Park after three good seasons with AC Milan, where he was a regular in their defense last season. He played 85 times for Milan and helped them win the Supercoppa Italiana last season. Newcastle paid €36 million right away and can pay €4 million more if needed. Thiaw is Newcastle’s third signing this summer, along with Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale. He has played three times for Germany and is excited to join a “big club.” Thiaw will join Newcastle’s defense with Sven Botman, Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, and Jamaal Lascelles.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Newcastle had a tough transfer window. They missed some targets and are still unsure about keeping star striker Alexander Isak. Thiaw has played in the Bundesliga and Serie A and has Champions League experience, including against Newcastle. Manager Eddie Howe praised Thiaw’s skills and European experience, which will help as Newcastle returns to the Champions League. Last season, Newcastle finished 5th in the Premier League, earning a spot back in Europe’s top competition, and they aim to reach the Champions League spots again this season. They need a strong defense to compete in both domestic and continental games.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Thiaw’s signing comes just as Newcastle starts the Premier League season against Aston Villa. Last season, Newcastle finished with 66 points, just three points behind fourth-place Chelsea and five behind Manchester City. Aston Villa finished just behind, level on points with Newcastle but with a negative result in the head to head, and will host Eddie Howe’s team in a tough opening match. Thiaw might start in their defense, which could help Newcastle compete with the league’s top teams and perform well in the Champions League, which starts next month.