Officially.. Newcastle announces the signing of Malick Thiaw

Newcastle United has announced its signing of the German international defender Malick Thiaw, who is 24 years old, coming from AC Milan for 35 million euros plus 5 million in add-ons, and he has signed a long-term contract (until 2029).

The club said: "Thiaw, who primarily plays as a center-back, has played 85 matches in all competitions over three seasons with Milan, including a match against Newcastle in the Champions League at San Siro, and scored his only goal with the Italian team in the continental tournament last season during a 3-1 victory over Real Madrid away from home."

He added: "The German defender began his professional career with Schalke 04 in his home country, where he progressed through the youth ranks before making his Bundesliga debut at the age of 18 in 2020. He has three international caps with the German national team and will wear the number 12 shirt with Newcastle this season."

Thiaw said in his first statements after joining: "I am very excited to join this great club. I can't wait to start training and get to know my new teammates and the coaching staff. The coach explained to me his vision and plans for me and the club, which is very exciting. Newcastle is a well-known name, a big club with passionate fans, and I look forward to seeing them at St. James' Park."

For his part, Newcastle coach Eddie Howe commented: "We are very happy to welcome Malick. He is a player I have been following for a long time and will add a lot of quality to our defensive options. Despite his young age, he has valuable experience in the Champions League, as well as playing in the Bundesliga and Serie A, which is an important addition for us as we return to European competitions this season."