AC Milan is on the verge of securing Strahinja Pavlovic from Salzburg, a move that has reignited speculation about the potential departure of Malick Thiaw. Reports from England suggest that Newcastle United’s interest in the 22-year-old central defender is becoming increasingly serious. Thiaw, who is under contract with Milan until June 2027, was acquired by the Rossoneri for over 8 million euros in the summer of 2022. Given the recent exit of Simon Kjaer and the need to bolster their defensive lineup, Milan views Thiaw as a key player for the future.
According to Calciomercato, Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe holds Thiaw in high regard and is pushing his club to make a substantial offer to Milan. The Magpies, who previously signed Sandro Tonali from Milan for approximately 70 million euros last season, are reportedly willing to offer up to 35 million pounds (around 41 million euros) for Thiaw. Such a valuation could prompt Milan’s management to consider the financial benefits of a significant profit.
However, no formal offer has yet been presented to Milan’s executives Giorgio Furlani and Geoffrey Moncada. The club’s current stance is to enhance their defensive options rather than facilitate Thiaw’s exit, especially with the potential addition of Pavlovic, who brings unique qualities to their backline.
Confirming that Thiaw’s departure is not imminent, his agent Gordon Stipic has publicly denied the transfer rumors. Speaking to Sky Deutschland, Stipic stated, “The current speculation about my client moving to Newcastle is false and unfounded.”
