Manchester United's late attempt to poach Newcastle falls short, allowing them to finalize a £35million signing agreement
Newcastle United have strengthened their squad with the signing of Malick Thiaw from AC Milan, marking their third acquisition of the summer. The defender, who turned down advances from Manchester United, joins the Magpies for a reported fee of £35 million.
The transfer process saw Newcastle initially have a bid rejected but then return with an improved offer that AC Milan accepted. Thiaw's desire to move to Tyneside was instrumental in getting the deal done, with both clubs expressing goodwill in their official announcements.
Thiaw, who made 85 appearances for AC Milan, scored once against Newcastle in the Champions League during his time at the Italian club. He expressed his excitement about joining Newcastle, saying, "I can't wait to start training and to get to know my new teammates and all the staff."
Meanwhile, Newcastle could be hit with another transfer blow with Alexander Isak's saga refusing to go away. Isak is training on his own and has no chance of being involved for the opening game against Aston Villa. Reports suggest that Isak has asked to leave Newcastle to join Liverpool, with a £110m bid already rejected. It remains unclear whether Newcastle will part ways with Isak before the window closes.
The relationship between Newcastle and AC Milan has recently developed through this high-profile transfer, with the Toon retaining a strong relationship with Milan since their £55m move for Sandro Tonali in 2023. Eddie Howe led negotiations with Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani, flying out to Italy twice this summer.
Yoane Wissa remains a top target for Newcastle, with Brentford now targeting Dango Ouattara as his possible replacement. Wissa could be viewed as a Callum Wilson replacement rather than one for Alexander Isak.
This transfer window has been frustrating for Newcastle United, with potential signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo linking up at Manchester United, and Benjamin Sesko being secured by the Red Devils instead of Newcastle. Dean Huijsen, who was a potential target for Newcastle, has departed Bournemouth for Real Madrid, missing out on a potential move to St. James' Park.
Thiaw's arrival will be a welcome boost to boss Eddie Howe, who has been inspired by Thiaw's desire to join the club's project. Andy Howe, Newcastle's current assistant head of first team recruitment, was in contact with Thiaw's representatives for the past year.
As the transfer window continues, Newcastle United fans will be hoping for more positive news, with Thiaw's arrival providing a much-needed boost to their defence.
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