Malick Thiaw has turned down a proposed transfer to newly-promoted Serie A side Como, despite AC Milan reaching a reported €25 million agreement with the club.
The central defender, who holds dual nationality with Senegal and Germany, refused to approve the move, bringing an abrupt halt to negotiations that had appeared close to completion.
AC Milan, who signed Thiaw from Schalke 04 just two years ago, had viewed the deal as a profitable opportunity, but the 22-year-old’s firm stance has scuppered the plans.
Thiaw, whose current contract with the Rossoneri runs until 2027, never gave consent for the transfer. While both clubs were aligned on the financial terms, the player’s reluctance ultimately derailed the process.
Como, despite their ambitious project following promotion to Italy’s top flight, failed to convince the defender, who is believed to be targeting a move to a club with European competition prospects.
Talks between Milan and Como had gathered momentum in recent days, with several outlets prematurely reporting an imminent agreement.
However, respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the player has no intention of signing for the Lombardy-based side, thus ending the negotiations definitively.
Thiaw has made 63 appearances in all competitions for Milan since his arrival in 2022 and has grown into a consistent presence in the heart of the defence.
His performances have attracted attention beyond Italy, and while no official bids have emerged following the breakdown of the Como deal, there is already renewed speculation linking him to Premier League side Newcastle United, who have reportedly maintained long-term interest in the player.
For now, Thiaw is expected to rejoin the Milan squad as pre-season preparations continue. The defender’s decision not to accept the Como offer underscores his career ambitions, with sources close to the player suggesting he is prioritising clubs that can offer regular European football.
AC Milan’s willingness to sell Thiaw may reflect their strategy to generate funds for reinforcements, but the player’s refusal leaves the club in a holding pattern.
Milan must now reassess their plans for the remainder of the transfer window, particularly if interest from elsewhere in Thiaw’s services begins to solidify.
The failed transfer also represents a setback for Como, who had hoped to make a major statement in the market by signing a player with top-tier and international experience.
Having secured promotion, the club has made no secret of its ambitions to compete at the highest level of Serie A, but Thiaw’s rejection suggests they may face challenges attracting players already established at Europe’s elite clubs.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Milan receive new offers for Thiaw — and whether the player will find a destination that aligns more closely with his aspirations.
