Newcastle United Nears Transfer Breakthrough as Eddie Howe Hints at £33m Star Signing

Newcastle United is on the verge of a major transfer breakthrough, with head coach Eddie Howe suggesting a potential move for AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw. This development follows the club's earlier signings of Lloyd Kelly, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy, and Lewis Hall on July 1. Additionally, Paul Mitchell's appointment as sporting director has facilitated regular transfer meetings with Howe and the Newcastle recruitment team.

When asked about the possibility of new signings before the opening day against Southampton on August 17, Howe stated, “It’d be nice, we’re all hoping for that but let’s see what happens. I do sound like I’m repeating myself but it is difficult and we have to be very careful with what we do.”

According to Luke Edwards from The Telegraph, Newcastle is close to securing a transfer deal. This comes after Howe addressed rumors linking the club with AC Milan's Malick Thiaw. Although Thiaw’s agent, Gordon Stipic, recently downplayed a move to St James’ Park, Newcastle has reportedly held talks about the possibility of signing the 22-year-old this summer.

When questioned about Newcastle’s interest in Thiaw, Howe commented in Tokyo on Tuesday, “No, there’s no update on that.” However, he did acknowledge the player's talent, adding, “I’m always reluctant to comment but he is a player that I know about of course from our games in the Champions League against Milan and yeah, he is a very good player.”

Newcastle is actively seeking another central defender this summer, having already secured Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth. The team is currently dealing with the absence of Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman, both sidelined with ACL injuries until later this year.

Malick Thiaw, who has made 54 appearances for Milan since joining from Schalke 04 two years ago, featured in last season’s goalless Champions League draw against Newcastle at the San Siro but missed the reverse fixture due to a hamstring injury. Reports suggest that Milan is seeking £33 million for Thiaw, while Newcastle values him at around £8 million less.

As Newcastle United continues to strengthen its squad, fans eagerly await further updates on this potential transfer breakthrough.