Newcastle United have signed AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw for £34.6m, including add-ons, as Eddie Howe strengthens his back line ahead of the new season.

The 24-year-old Germany international becomes Newcastle’s third addition of the summer, following winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on loan from Southampton.

“I’m really excited to join this massive club,” Thiaw said. “The gaffer showed me his vision for me and for the club, which is really exciting. Newcastle speaks for itself, it’s a big club with passionate fans.”

Securing a centre-back was a priority for Howe, with the Magpies missing out on a string of targets including Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro and James Trafford.

The club have also faced speculation over Alexander Isak’s future, with the striker pushing for a move to Liverpool.

Howe praised his new signing’s blend of youth and experience: “Malick will add real quality to our defensive options.

He’s still young but brings Champions League experience, as well as spells in the Bundesliga and Serie A – a big positive for us as we return to Europe this season.”

Thiaw joined Milan from Schalke in 2022 and made 31 appearances last season, scoring once against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

He will link up with his new teammates ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League opener at Aston Villa on Saturday.