Malick Thiaw's agent has rubbished claims that Newcastle United are close to signing the AC Milan defender.
The Magpies have already strengthened their backline this summer, having recruited Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth on a free transfer.
However, Newcastle are still keen to bring in another centre-back, with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles continuing to work on their recovery from serious knee injuries.
A report from HITC claimed that Newcastle were in advanced talks with Italian giants Milan over a potential transfer for Thiaw.
![Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe pictured on May 22, 2024 [IMAGO]](https://sm.imgix.net/24/25/eddie-howe_1.jpg?w=640&h=480&auto=compress,format&fit=clip "Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe pictured on May 22, 2024 [IMAGO]")
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Thiaw agent responds to Newcastle rumours
However, Thiaw's agent Gordon Stipic has now responded to those rumours, insisting that reports of a deal being close are "false and incorrect".
Stipic told Sky Deutschland: "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."
While a deal may not be imminent, Newcastle still retain an interest in signing the Frenchman from Milan this summer.
Paulo Fonseca, who has replaced Stefano Pioli in the Milan dugout, does not view Thiaw as a key part of his plans and is seemingly happy to part ways with the 22-year-old this summer.
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How much will Thiaw cost?
Milan are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Strahinja Pavlovic, which will only knock Thiaw further down the pecking order.
With Milan willing to sell Thiaw this summer, Chronicle Live are reporting that the Italian club are looking to entertain offers in the region of €35m (£30m).
Thiaw has previously been linked with the likes of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, but Newcastle appear to be among the frontrunners to secure his signature.
Having competed in the Bundesliga and Serie A, a move to Newcastle would give Thiaw the opportunity to play in another major European league.
![Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin celebrates scoring their first goal on April 2, 2024 [IMAGO]](https://sm.imgix.net/11/29/1x1.gif?w=1&h=1 "Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin celebrates scoring their first goal on April 2, 2024 [IMAGO]")
