It’s no secret by now that Eddie Howe has built perhaps the most positive, tightly-knit squad in the Premier League today.

From our young stars to seasoned veterans, anyone and everyone remarks at the brotherhood that has been built at Newcastle United.

It’s what made us such an appealing prospect for many players both within the Premier League, with Anthony Elanga comfortably settling in on Tyneside in no time at all.

And now we’ve seen the first footage of fellow new signing Malick Thiaw arriving to the club, and it’s safe to say that the big man is already fitting in nicely as he settles into his new surroundings.

Malick Thiaw’s first day on film

Published on the club’s official YouTube channel, the German international has been waiting years to finally become a Newcastle player, and he’s so far savouring every second of it.

Arriving at the training ground in Benton, Thiaw met up with key staff like Eddie Howe, Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones, as well as most of the senior squad.

Perhaps the most eye-catching part of the video is just how tall and imposing Thiaw is: almost rivalling Dan Burn in stature, Graeme Jones hilariously commented that Thiaw was a “good size” as he patted the 24-year-old’s chest!

His first meeting with Howe was also a highlight, as the boss gave him a hug, asked how he was and repeated how happy he was to have Malick at the club.

Positioned next to former AC Milan teammate Sandro Tonali in the changing room, you can feel right away how excited Thiaw is to be on Tyneside, with that highlighted at the end as he sees St James’ Park for the first time as his young son runs around the pitch!

Howe hails German giant

Speaking to BBC Sport, Howe expressed his own excitement on adding Thiaw to his list of defensive options. Just imagine the quartet of Thiaw, Botman, Hall and Livramento for the next few years.

“I’m really excited by Malick. I think he is a great age. He’s full of potential and the best of his career is yet to come.

Remarking on Thiaw’s physical attributes, he’s the prototypical Eddie Howe defender. “He’s an imposing character. He’s 6ft 4in, quick, athletic, good on the ball. Those types of players are very rare to find. He’s a good character as well so I’m very excited by what he can bring.”

It’s unlikely we see Thiaw start at Aston Villa tomorrow, but he has all the makings of a top centre-back and will soon be pushing Fabian Schar for a place in that back four.