Malick Thiaw (24) is leaving AC Milan with immediate effect and moving to the Premier League for the first time in his career. The former Schalke player also wants to increase his chances of playing in the World Cup at Newcastle United.
Rumors of Malick Thiaw’s departure had been persistent in recent transfer windows. Now the center back is actually leaving AC Milan and turning his attention to the Premier League after his time in Serie A.
According to reports, the Düsseldorf-born player has signed a four-year contract with Newcastle United until June 30, 2029, although his new club is only referring to a “long-term contract.”
Several clubs had expressed interest in the three-time German international this summer. In Serie A, Como, coached by Cesc Fabregas, had intensified its efforts and had reportedly already reached an agreement with Milan, but Thiaw obviously did not want to take this step.
Instead, after a good preseason with the Rossoneri (current coach Massimiliano Allegri regretted the departure of his defender), he is now moving to England for the first time in his career. At Newcastle, Thiaw will also be looking to increase his chances of participating in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. In Milan, Thiaw lost his place in the starting line-up in the final stages of the 2024/25 season and missed out on a place in the rankings for the top flight abroad.
Thiaw lowers the average age
In central defense, the Magpies under coach Eddie Howe had previously relied primarily on experience: captain Jamaal Lascelles is 31, Dan Burn is 33, as is former Hoffenheim player Fabian Schär. Only Sven Botman, at 25, is just one year older than Thiaw.
According to consistent media reports, Newcastle is putting together a €40 million package for the future prospect from Germany, with various bonuses already included.
“I am really excited to be joining this great club,” Thiaw is quoted as saying in the official club statement. “I think Newcastle speaks for itself.”
The figures are sure to catch the attention of officials and fans at FC Schalke 04, who sold their defensive gem to Milan for ten million euros in August 2022. The deal included a resale share of around ten percent of the surplus. This means that Schalke could receive up to three million euros, but this will not be used for squad planning. After all, the Gelsenkirchen club must continue to keep an eye on its equity requirements.
Leverkusen preferred Quansah
In the meantime, Thiaw had also been touted as Jonathan Tah’s successor at last year’s double winners from Leverkusen. However, the sporting management around Simon Rolfes preferred to sign English U-21 European champion Jarell Quansah.
After 85 competitive games for Milan (one goal), Thiaw now wants to settle quickly in Newcastle upon Tyne so that he can experience early highlights of the season on the pitch. The Premier League opener against Aston Villa on August 16 will be followed by a home game against champions Liverpool on August 25.