'Active contact': Fabrizio Romano says Newcastle are locked in talks with 'colossal' player's agents

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Newcastle United’s interest in one player, but there is a problem.

The Magpies have been active in this transfer window. John Ruddy and Lloyd Kelly have joined the club on free transfers, while Odysseas Vlachodimos was brought in from Nottingham Forest.

Lewis Hall’s loan from Chelsea was turned into a permanent deal as well, so it has been a good window for Newcastle United fans until now.

However, Eddie Howe is not done just yet. He needs a few more players, and Romano has shared an update on one of Newcastle’s key targets.

Fabrizio Romano explains the ‘problem’ Newcastle are facing in Malick Thiaw deal

Malick Thiaw has been a wanted man in this window.

The versatile AC Milan star has impressed a lot of people since moving to the San Siro from Schalke in the summer of 2022.

Thiaw is a fantastic player. He can play as a centre-half, at right back and also as a defensive midfielder if required, and he has all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League.

Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move to sign Thiaw this summer, and he would be a great signing for them ahead of the start of the new season.

However, there is a problem.

Romano has revealed that Milan’s asking price is complicating things for Newcastle United, which is why a deal has not been struck just yet.

That being said, the Toon are said to be in ‘active contact’ with Thiaw’s agents over a move to St James’ Park this summer.

Romano told GiveMeSport: “Now, the interest in Malick Thiaw remains, but I think a problem could be the price, because Milan are still asking for important money. It’s not a player available for €20 million or something like that.

“That’s why Newcastle appreciate the player. Newcastle maintain active contact with his agent, but it’s not something close between clubs.”

AC Milan’s asking price for Malick Thiaw

AC Milan are open to selling Thiaw this summer.

The ‘colossal‘ German had an injury-hit 2023/24 campaign, which limited him to just 24 appearances in the Serie A. He was out for 83 days due to fitness issues.

With Fikayo Tomori and Pierre Kalulu available, the Rossoneri are ready to cash in on Thiaw, and they are hoping for a big offer from Newcastle.

That’s according to CalcioMercato.it, who reveal that AC Milan want the Magpies to pay close to €40 million to sign Thiaw in the coming weeks.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will meet those demands.