'Green light' - Newcastle United transfer claim as talks held with Champions League star

Newcastle United have reportedly learned the asking price of one of their summer transfer targets.

Eddie Howe’s side have identified AC Milan centre-back Malick Thiaw as a potential option this summer having already reached out to the Serie A club.

And according to Italian broadcaster SportMediaset - as relayed by Tuttomercato - Thiaw is not on Milan’s ‘unsellable list’, meaning they could give the deal the ‘green light’ if the Magpies submit an offer between £21million to £25m.

There is, however, some conflicting reports surrounding the 22-year-old’s price tag. Corriere dello Sport also claims Newcastle are prepared to bid £33m but Milan would demand ‘slightly higher’.

Thiaw is under contract the Rossoneri until 2027 after arriving from Schalke 04 two years ago. He has gone to make 54 appearances.

Howe got a first-hand look at Thiaw last season when he partnered Fikayo Tomari - another Newcastle target - in defence during the two clubs’ 0-0 draw in the San Siro in September. He missed the return Champion League group stage fixture at St James’ Park because of a hamstring injury which restricted him to 21 Serie A appearances last term.

With both Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman sidelined until the end of the year with ACL injuries, the Magpies are considering bolstering their defensive options in the coming months.

Howe has already brought in Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from former club AFC Bournemouth. With the 25-year-old capable of playing as a left-sided centre-half or left-back, the focus has now switched to strengthening the right side.

It was only 12 months ago since Newcastle and Milan last did business when Sandro Tonali arrived on Tyneside for a reported £55m The Italian midfielder played 12 times before receiving a 10-month ban for illegal betting offences. He is eligible to return in late August for the Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur.