Mitchell’s a fan: Newcastle and PIF eyeing move to bring Tonali’s old buddy to Tyneside
As Newcastle United close in on Champions League qualification, the club’s recruitment team has already begun identifying defensive targets to strengthen their squad for Europe’s elite competition.
With injuries exposing their lack of depth at center-back this season, the Magpies are preparing to invest heavily in their backline, with RC Lens’ Facundo Medina and AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw emerging as primary targets.
The potential £30 million acquisition of Medina would address Newcastle’s immediate need for a left-footed central defender. The Argentine international has enjoyed an impressive season in Ligue 1, attracting attention from several Premier League rivals and European clubs.
Newcastle’s likely Champions League status could prove decisive in the race for his signature, giving them a significant advantage over competitors like Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Everton.
| Player | Club | Age | Estimated Fee | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Facundo Medina | RC Lens | 25 | £30m | Ball progression, aerial dominance |
| Malick Thiaw | AC Milan | 23 | £26m | Physicality, recovery pace |
| Jon Aramburu | Real Sociedad | 21 | £15m | Versatility, attacking output |
Thiaw represents an equally intriguing option, with AC Milan reportedly willing to sell the German international for around £26 million to balance their books. The 23-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at San Siro but possesses all the physical attributes to thrive in the Premier League. His existing relationship with Sandro Tonali could prove valuable in helping him adapt quickly to life at St James’ Park.
Newcastle’s interest in Thiaw isn’t new – sporting director Paul Mitchell identified him as a target last summer before the move failed to materialize. The young defender’s statistics this season demonstrate his potential, with an impressive 3.5 clearances per game and zero errors leading to goals in 21 Serie A appearances.
Malick Thiaw’s 2024/25 Serie A Performance Data
| Metric | Per Game Average |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 21 (19 starts) |
| Clean sheets | 7 |
| Interceptions | 0.7 |
| Tackles | 1.1 |
| Clearances | 3.5 |
| Aerial duels won | 2.3 |
| Pass accuracy | 87% |
While Medina and Thiaw would provide immediate first-team options, Newcastle are also considering long-term investments like Real Sociedad’s Jon Aramburu.
The 21-year-old right-back could eventually succeed Kieran Trippier, demonstrating the club’s commitment to both short-term improvement and sustainable squad building.
The Magpies’ transfer strategy clearly reflects their growing ambitions. By targeting young, technically gifted defenders with high ceilings, they’re building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
Champions League football would not only increase their pulling power in the market but also provide the financial resources to secure their top targets.
As the season reaches its climax, Newcastle fans can take comfort knowing the club is planning meticulously for their likely return to Europe’s top table.
The potential arrivals of Medina or Thiaw would significantly bolster a defense that has been stretched thin by injuries this campaign, providing Eddie Howe with the tools to compete against the continent’s best attackers next season.
With Paul Mitchell overseeing recruitment and Champions League revenue set to boost their transfer budget, Newcastle are positioning themselves as serious players in this summer’s market.
The coming months could see the Magpies make their most significant defensive investments since their Saudi-backed takeover, signaling their intent to establish themselves among England’s elite.