24-Year-Old Defender Set To Join Newcastle United As Deal Agreed: Is He A Good Signing For The Magpies? | OneFootball

Over the past few years, Newcastle United have made a name for themselves in the Premier League as a tough opponent. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, the team have made it to European competitions and recorded many memorable victories.

However, every season brings new challenges, and the current situation has left the Tyneside club feeling the need to make changes to their defence, as they will play in the UEFA Champions League as well. With experienced defenders like Fabian Schar and Dan Burn now at the fag end of their careers, the club were always looking for a young, fast and reliable centre-back for the future.

The team management have looked at a number of options over the past months. Players from various leagues have been linked, but Newcastle United wanted to bring in a player who is fit for the long term and can easily adapt to the team’s style. The search led them to Italy’s Serie A, where a defender from AC Milan seemingly fit into the club’s plans. The discussions took a long time, but slowly the picture became clearer.

Newcastle United reach an agreement for Malick Thiaw

REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – APRIL 14: Malick Thiaw of AC Milan in action during the Serie A TIM match between US Sassuolo and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on April 14, 2024 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United and AC Milan have reached a verbal agreement on the transfer of Malick Thiaw. The deal is set for around €40 million (including add-ons). The player himself has also agreed to the transfer, speeding up the process. Thiaw is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days, after which an official announcement will be made.

It took long negotiations between the two clubs to reach the deal. Newcastle United were serious from day one, and Eddie Howe was clear that he needed new energy in the defensive line. AC Milan also eventually accepted the offer, giving the Magpies a key player in their future plans.

Is this the right move for the Magpies?

A defender like Thiaw can be a big contributor to Eddie Howe’s strategy. The 24-year-old has a tall stature, good aerial ability and precise positioning. His strengths can prove useful for the team in the fast and physical game of the Premier League. Howe often relies on building attacks from the back, and Thiaw’s ball control will suit and aid this approach very well.

However, he will have to adjust quickly to the pace and pressing of the English Premier League. Thiaw has gained experience on the European stage at AC Milan, which will come in handy here. In our opinion, this signing could provide stability to Newcastle United’s defence for the next few years. If Thiaw gets into his rhythm, the Magpies’ defence could become one of the toughest to break down in the league.