Sky Germany: Newcastle submit €30m bid on Wednesday

Newcastle United have escalated their pursuit of AC Milan center-back Malick Thiaw, submitting an official €30 million bid for the German international according to Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger.

The 23-year-old defender has emerged as a prime defensive target for Eddie Howe’s side, with negotiations now entering a critical phase.

The proposed deal includes a significant clause benefiting Thiaw’s former club Schalke 04, who would receive 10% of the transfer fee due to a sell-on agreement established when the towering defender joined Milan two years ago.

Standing at 6’4″, Thiaw’s physical presence and composed performances during Milan’s preseason tour of Asia have reportedly caught Newcastle’s attention, with scouts closely monitoring his displays against Premier League opposition Liverpool and Arsenal.

However, conflicting reports persist regarding Milan’s willingness to part with their young defender. While Italian sources suggest new Rossoneri manager Max Allegri views Thiaw as integral to his plans following impressive preseason showings, Newcastle’s formal offer tests the Serie A club’s resolve.

The Magpies’ interest appears serious, having tracked the defender since last month when he featured prominently in Milan’s high-profile friendlies.

Tyneside insiders initially downplayed earlier Italian media claims of a bid, with The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope maintaining the club were merely exploring the possibility.

But Sky Germany’s latest update confirms Newcastle have now transitioned from admirers to serious suitors, putting the ball firmly in Milan’s court.

The potential acquisition would address Newcastle’s need for defensive reinforcements following last season’s injury crisis.

Thiaw’s blend of aerial dominance, progressive passing, and experience at both club and international level makes him an attractive proposition for a Newcastle side looking to build on their European qualification.

As negotiations progress, all eyes remain on Milan’s response to this opening salvo. With the Bundesliga connection through Schalke complicating the financials and Allegri seemingly reluctant to lose a promising defender, Newcastle may need to improve their offer to secure a player who could solidify their backline for years to come.

The coming days will reveal whether this €30 million bid represents the beginning of a successful pursuit or merely the opening gambit in a protracted transfer saga.