‘Progress has been made’: Newcastle’s Talks for 22-year-old defender heading in right direction

Newcastle United appear to be on the verge of securing a crucial centre-back signing, a priority since the transfer market opened. Eddie Howe’s determined efforts to bolster the defense are finally paying off.

Initially, Eddie Howe was confident he had secured two defenders before the transfer window officially opened. Lloyd Kelly and Tosin Adarabioyo were both poised to join Newcastle United.

However, only Kelly ultimately signed, reuniting with Howe, while Adarabioyo chose to move from Fulham to Chelsea, staying in London.

Despite numerous center-backs being linked to the club, one name has consistently featured: Malick Thiaw. The German centre-back, currently with AC Milan, has now reportedly verbally agreed to a contract in principle with Newcastle United.

Journalist Joel Bland revealed via X that talks between Newcastle and AC Milan are progressing positively.

Thiaw, 22, has made a significant impact at AC Milan, playing alongside another Newcastle target, Fikayo Tomori. With Milan targeting Strahinja Petrovic as a potential replacement, the chances of Thiaw moving to Newcastle are increasing.

Bland’s report indicates that while no fee has been agreed upon yet, the progress in negotiations is promising.

It is important to note that a verbal agreement on a contract in principle does not guarantee a completed deal. Newcastle fans have experienced this stage before, only to see deals fall through.

Despite this, the excitement is palpable. Thiaw’s potential signing is comparable to the acquisition of Sven Botman, bringing in a young, capable defender with significant potential for growth.

While the deal is still not finalized, the anticipation among Newcastle supporters is high. The possibility of adding Thiaw to the squad has fans hopeful for a stronger defensive lineup.

The excitement is understandable, given Thiaw’s proven abilities and the potential impact he could have on the team’s performance.

Securing a strong center-back has been a priority for Eddie Howe and the Newcastle management.

The club’s defensive needs are evident, and the addition of a player like Thiaw could provide the stability and strength required at the back. His experience in Serie A and his performances alongside top defenders make him a valuable target.

If the deal goes through, Thiaw’s signing would represent a significant coup for Newcastle United. His defensive skills, coupled with his age and potential for development, align perfectly with the club’s long-term vision.

Thiaw could form a formidable partnership with existing defenders, contributing to Newcastle’s ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.

As negotiations continue, Newcastle United’s pursuit of Malick Thiaw is at a critical juncture. The positive developments in talks with AC Milan offer hope, but the finalization of the deal remains crucial. Fans and management alike will keep their fingers crossed, eagerly awaiting confirmation of what could be a transformative signing for the club.

Newcastle United’s quest to strengthen their defense is nearing a potentially successful conclusion, and the addition of Malick Thiaw could mark a significant milestone in the club’s journey to becoming a top contender in the Premier League and beyond.