You may remember Malick Thiaw’s name being heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United this time last summer.
Back in July 2024, the AC Milan centre-back was thought to be in our sights, with Fabrizio Romano and Sky Italy both confirming our interest in the German international.
Howe was even asked about our interest, giving nothing away but admitting that he was a “very good player” and someone he “knows about” after impressing in our Champions League draw at San Siro two seasons ago.
However, after a tricky season in Italy over the 2023/24 campaign, it looks like Newcastle have turned their attention elsewhere, with Thiaw now closing in on a move away from Milan this week.
According to Fabrizio Romano, former Newcastle target Malick Thiaw is closing in on a move to Como.
He reports that the Serie A side have agreed a €25m package with AC Milan, leaving the player with a decision to make and only personal terms left to discuss should he approve the move.
Thiaw spent much of last season on the bench, making 22 league appearances after struggling to nail down a regular spot in Milan’s starting XI.
His stock has fallen slightly and so has his price, as the €40m fee we were reportedly quoted last summer has now dropped to €25m, with Como closing in on a deal should the German international agree to join Cesc Fabregas’ side in Lombardy.
Staying in Serie A, Newcastle have been linked with a move for Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini.
Matteo Moretto revealed our interest last weekend and Fabrizio Romano called him a ‘dream’ target of ours on Instagram, yet reports in Bergamo suggest it will take big money to prise him away.
Elsewhere, Marc Guehi remains up for grabs as Crystal Palace look set to cash in while they can, with his contract now entering its final 12 months.
Liverpool are looking to sign him, however, and could prove stiff competition, but the lack of certainty over starts at Anfield could give us a slight advantage.