‘False and incorrect’ - Newcastle United meet transfer hurdle as agent shuts down £35m talk

Malick Thiaw’s agent has slammed suggestions that Newcastle United are close to signing his client from AC Milan.

Reports have linked the Magpies with a move for the centre-back in recent weeks. NewcastleWorld understand a defender remains a transfer priority for Eddie Howe - who is yet to see a major breakthrough in the market.

The Magpies were stung by Serie A giants Milan last year after signing Sandro Tonali for £55million. Just 12 games into his Toon career, the Italian was slapped with a 10-month ban for breaching betting regulations.

But various sources claim the saga has not deterred Newcastle from approaching Milan again. German international Thiaw is reportedly available for £35million after emerging as a top prospect at centre-back.

Turning 23 next month, the defender can also operate at right-back and as a holding midfielder. Newcastle go into the new campaign with Lloyd Kelly, Dan Burn and Fabian Schar as the only fit central options.

The latter two are also on the wrong side of 30 - forcing the Magpies to look towards the future. Thiaw ticks a lot of boxes but Newcastle must stump up a sizable fee, with Schalke set to scoop a 10 per cent sell-on clause.

His agent, Gordon Stipic, has not been impressed with rumours suggesting a deal is close. He told Sky Germany: “The current reporting about my client Malick Thiaw in connection with a possible transfer to Newcastle United is false and incorrect. Therefore, I will not comment on any further rumours.”