Newcastle United announce third summer signing as Malick Thiaw officially joins Magpies
German international defender Malick Thiaw has joined Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale as Newcastle United's crop of summer signings.
After a long-standing interest in the 24-year-old, Newcastle finally have their man after agreeing a deal worth £30 million + £4.6 million add-ons with AC Milan.
While the interest in Thiaw has been there for a while for Newcastle, the actual move for the defender happened pretty quickly, with Malick Thiaw himself saying that it all moved fast while he was in Dublin with AC Milan as they took on Leeds United.
Thiaw told the Newcastle United official website that he was very keen on the move before it happened and was completely sold on the vision after speaking with Eddie Howe.
Malick Thiaw can't wait to get going at Newcastle
In his announcement video, Thiaw spoke about how he said he wanted the move to Newcastle as soon as he heard about their interest. Also in his first interview with the club's media team, he spoke about his excitement to step out at St James' Park.
"I'm really excited to join this massive club. I can't wait to start training and to get to know my new team-mates and all the staff.
"The gaffer showed me his vision and what he wants to do with me as a player and the club itself, which is really exciting.
"I think Newcastle speaks for itself. It's a great club, a big club with passionate fans who I can't wait to see at St James' Park."
Eddie Howe wanted Malick Thiaw's Champions League experience
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe spoke about his new signing, saying how his Champions League experience will benefit Newcastle.
"We're really pleased to have Malick on board. He's a player I've admired for a long time and somebody who will add real quality to our defensive options.
"Malick is still young but brings valuable experience of Champions League football, as well as playing in the Bundesliga and Serie A, which is a major positive for us as we return to Europe this season."
Hopefully, with a few days training under his belt this week, Thiaw will be ready to go straight into the matchday squad on Saturday.
