The most difficult window so far has more than arguably been Newcastle’s, with them losing out on their first-choice attacking target, their first-choice new goalkeeper, and potentially losing their star player. Things may now be looking likely to turn around as the Magpies are determined to sign a new defender. However, Newcastle United will need a hefty bid to land Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.<\/p>\n
Fabrizio Romano has revealed<\/a> that Newcastle have made a “new direct approach” to Milan and Thiaw’s representatives regarding a move, with the season starting in just over a week. Despite a large amount of noise surrounding the Geordies being about their striker issues, the club appear to be concerned with a new centre-back. There have also been reports<\/a> of varying reliability about them going back in for Marc Guehi.<\/p>\n Read More: <\/strong>Manchester United Agreement Could Open Nicolas Jackson Exit Door<\/a><\/p>\n However, Milan do not want to sell. Manager Max Allegri wants to keep his star centre-back. They are reportedly “clear” with their demands: a proposal “out of market value” must be submitted, or Thiaw stays in Italy. To overpay due to the seller’s demands would not please fans after a difficult summer already, though it may be a likely option with only one permanent first-team signing made so far.<\/p>\n With the biggest story at St James’ being Alexander Isak<\/a> potentially leaving, critics may question why Newcastle are focusing on a centre-back. They have already lost out on Hugo Ekitike<\/a>, and losing the Swede would leave them with William Osula as the only centre-forward. They arguably need two new strikers (though Isak’s departure is not yet certain).<\/p>\n Despite this issue, centre-back is also a problem. Sven Botman is an excellent player, though his three main back-ups are all over 30. They could struggle in a season playing Champions League football again with fitness and injuries. Furthermore, the Dutch defender is injury-prone himself.<\/p>\nSigning Malick Thiaw Fixes A Big Problem<\/h3>\n