Newcastle United’s long search for a centre-back could be nearing its end as they have reportedly tabled an improved offer for German international, Malick Thiaw having seen their first one rejected by AC Milan.
Softfootball understands that the Magpies have long been admirers of Thiaw and showed a genuine interest last summer before switching their attention to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
They engaged in a month long saga to sign Guehi but it ultimately proved fruitless. A year on, and Eddie Howe is still yet to strengthen the squad centre-back.
Thiaw looked set to leave last month when Milan accepted a £21million bid from Serie A rivals Como 1907, however the player did not agree to the move and it was therefore called off. Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has since decided he would like to keep the 24-year-old, in turn driving Thiaw’s price tag up.
Milan rejected a £26m bid from Newcastle earlier this week but according to Fabrizio Romano via his X handle, the Magpies have now returned with an improved bid, convinced that they can get a deal over the line.
His tweet reads:
“Newcastle have improved their proposal to AC Milan for Malick Thiaw as personal terms are agreed.
Negotiationd underway club to club, as Milan manager Allegri wants to keep Thiaw; but improved bid has now been submitted.”
Newcastle believe the player is keen to join, and there is confidence that the new offer could be enough to tempt Milan, with Thiaw already agreeing personal terms in a clear indication he is ready to make the move should both parties strike a deal.
Milan missed out on European football for the 2025/26 campaign after finishing eighth in Serie A last season, meaning a move to Tyneside will not only offer Thiaw another taste of Champions League football, but also the chance to reunite with former teammate Sandro Tonali.
In a related post, Softfootball reported earlier that Alexander Isak has once again rejected Newcastle deal as he wants Liverpool move.
