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£42m player does not want to join Newcastle despite Paul Mitchell holding lengthy talks

Billy Meyers

Mon 12 August 2024 16:45, UK

Newcastle are pushing hard to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace – but another target is not keen on a move to Tyneside this summer.

The Magpies are far more attractive than they used to be during the miserable Steve Bruce era, with UEFA Champions League football back at St James’ Park last season, and some of Europe’s top players residing in Newcastle, such as Alexander Isak.

Now – however – one Eddie Howe target is reluctant to join Newcastle this summer…

Malick Thiaw unmoved by Newcastle interest

A story from the now states that Malick Thiaw has no desire to sign for Newcastle.

The AC Milan No.28 is not willing to give up UEFA Champions League football to join the Magpies this summer, especially as Newcastle have no European football whatsoever to offer in the 2024/25 campaign after Manchester United’s FA Cup win.

It comes after Corriere dello Sport claimed that Newcastle have already held extensive talks with Thiaw’s representatives, as Paul Mitchell – Director of Football at St James’ Park – attempts to strike an agreement.

However, no movement is occurring, despite Newcastle being linked with the defender for most of the summer.

Another source in Ben Jacobs wrote that Newcastle were even preparing to bid for Thiaw – who AC Milan value at £42m.

Howe appears to have accepted the Germany international’s decision, as talks are now taking place between Newcastle and Crystal Palace over a deal to sign Guehi – a £50m bid has already been rejected, with the Eagles holding out for £65m.

Marc Guehi is a more sensible option

If Newcastle can lure Guehi away from Crystal Palace this summer, there will surely be nobody on Tyneside who cares about Thiaw’s rejection of the Magpies.

The England international is a similar player to the German, albeit a little more expensive, but what he does have over the 23-year-old is vast experience of English football.

Guehi has amassed 98 Premier League appearances and also 52 in the Championship across spells at Chelsea and Swansea before his move to Crystal Palace, while he also represents a homegrown option for Newcastle.

Had Thiaw been signed instead, there was no guarantee that he would adapt well to English football.

READ MORE: Newcastle expected to bid for £50,000-a-week Chelsea player and he is willing to join

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as talks between Newcastle and Crystal Palace continue.