Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing AC Milan's Malick Thiaw and Ruben Loftus-Cheek as they look to bolster their squad in the upcoming transfer windows.

According to Italian journalist Alessandro Schiavone, the Magpies are keen to address their need for a center-back and a versatile midfielder, with the Serie A duo fitting the bill.

Thiaw, a 22-year-old German international, has been on Newcastle's radar since the summer. Despite showing flashes of potential since joining Milan from Schalke in 2022, the defender has struggled for consistency at San Siro and that has him in the rumor mill these days.

Newcastle reportedly view him as a "long-term replacement" for their aging defensive core, which includes Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, and injured Jamaal Lascelles -- all over 30 years old.

Loftus-Cheek, meanwhile, should offer versatility in the midfield and could contribute in more advanced roles a la box-to-box midfielder. Perhaps most importantly for Howe, RLC would arrive with ample Premier League experience, something the gaffer has always valued more than anything.

The 28-year-old moved to Milan from Chelsea in 2023 and has since made over 50 appearances for the Serie A club, contributing 10 goals and three assists while there but none this season in 19 league and Champions League matches combined.