Chelsea Transfer News: Shaun Wright-Phillips Backs Malick Thiaw Move

Chelsea transfer news continues to heat up as former Blues winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has thrown his support behind a potential move for Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw. With Chelsea’s defense under scrutiny, Wright-Phillips believes Thiaw is exactly the reinforcement the London club needs as they look to solidify their backline ahead of a crucial part of the Premier League campaign.

Why Malick Thiaw is on Chelsea’s Radar

Thiaw, who joined Newcastle United from AC Milan in August for £30 million, has rapidly established himself as one of Eddie Howe’s most reliable performers. His aerial dominance, composure under pressure, and tactical intelligence have not gone unnoticed. The 23-year-old German has been a defensive lynchpin for the Magpies, earning plaudits for his consistency and maturity well beyond his years.

Prior to his move to Tyneside, Thiaw made a name for himself in Italy with AC Milan. After arriving from Schalke in 2022 for £5.8 million, he quickly became a regular starter, amassing 85 appearances in three seasons and helping the Rossoneri lift the Supercoppa Italiana in the 2024-25 campaign. His performances drew attention from top European clubs such as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but Newcastle ultimately secured his signature.

Shaun Wright-Phillips on Chelsea’s Defensive Needs

Speaking to Best Betting Sites, Wright-Phillips could not hide his admiration for Thiaw, stating, “If I could have anyone now, it would be Malick Thiaw from Newcastle. Since joining, he hasn’t had a bad game yet. He reads the game so well and always seems to be in the right place to deal with crosses. He’s quickly become one of the first names on Eddie Howe’s teamsheet.”

Despite the defender’s long-term contract with Newcastle and his vital role, Wright-Phillips urged Chelsea to make an ambitious attempt to sign Thiaw in the January transfer window. “It might be almost impossible, but Chelsea should at least try. In terms of ability, he’s exactly what that backline needs,” he added.

Chelsea’s Defensive Struggles

Chelsea’s backline has experienced periods of instability this season, with injuries and inconsistent form regularly disrupting Enzo Maresca’s preferred partnerships. Bringing in a player of Thiaw’s caliber could provide the Blues with both immediate solidity and a long-term solution at the heart of defense.

Ben White Also Tipped for Chelsea Switch

Wright-Phillips did not just stop at Malick Thiaw in his transfer recommendations for Chelsea. He also highlighted Arsenal’s Ben White as a potential summer target. The England international, who played a starring role after his £50 million move from Brighton in 2021, has found first-team opportunities limited this season due to competition from Jurrien Timber and recent injuries.

“I could see a move for Ben White to Chelsea next summer. He was excellent for Arsenal before getting injured, but has struggled to reclaim his place. With Timber now established as the best right-back in the Premier League, it’s going to be tough for White to get back in,” Wright-Phillips explained.

However, a January switch looks highly unlikely. Wright-Phillips acknowledged that Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title and Champions League means Mikel Arteta will want to keep his squad as strong as possible until the summer. “If Timber is injured, White is the man to come in. Selling him now would force Arsenal into the market, which they’ll want to avoid while fighting for trophies,” he said.

Chelsea Eye Momentum Ahead of Arsenal Clash

As Chelsea prepare for a high-stakes Premier League encounter with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, the Blues are riding high after a dominant 3-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona. The morale-boosting result has given Maresca’s side renewed confidence, and Sunday’s clash offers a pivotal opportunity to close the six-point gap on their London rivals.

The showdown with Arsenal arrives at a critical juncture in Chelsea’s campaign. A win could significantly bolster their hopes of a top-four finish and keep title ambitions alive. For more news on Chelsea’s transfer strategies and Premier League ambitions, visit for more news.

Opinion: Thiaw is the Right Fit for Chelsea’s Future

In my view, Malick Thiaw represents the kind of signing that could transform Chelsea’s defense for years to come. His tactical awareness, reliability, and leadership qualities are rare to find in such a young centre-back. While prising him away from Newcastle will be a significant challenge, Chelsea’s intent to pursue elite defensive talent is a welcome sign for fans eager to see the Blues return to their best. Should Thiaw or Ben White arrive at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s defensive prospects would be greatly enhanced in both the short and long term.