Liverpool and Manchester United Monitor Newcastle Defender Malick Thiaw
Liverpool and Manchester United have both been credited with an interest in Newcastle United centre-back Malick Thiaw, as the two Premier League heavyweights weigh up their long-term defensive options.
According to CaughtOffside, sources close to the agents’ industry claim that scouts from both clubs have been watching the German international closely, though no formal contact has yet been made with Newcastle over a possible deal.
Thiaw arrived at St James’ Park from AC Milan in August 2025 and has quickly become a first-choice figure under Eddie Howe. His composure on the ball, physical presence and comfort defending in wide areas have marked him out as one of the Premier League’s more reliable young centre-backs.
Why Thiaw Appeals to Both Clubs
Liverpool’s situation is easy to understand. Virgil van Dijk is edging towards the twilight of his Anfield career, and while Ronald Araujo and Jeremy Jacquet have arrived to freshen up the backline, manager Andoni Iraola is still assembling a defence built to last. Thiaw’s versatility across centre-back, right-back and even a defensive midfield role would give the Reds useful squad flexibility.
Manchester United’s need may be even sharper. Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have struggled for fitness, while Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined following back surgery. Michael Carrick’s side have shipped goals freely in the opening weeks of the season, and Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, while promising, are still developing. Thiaw, at 25 and entering his prime, offers readymade Premier League experience.
Newcastle Unlikely to Budge Easily
Newcastle have no obvious incentive to sell. Thiaw is tied down until 2029, and the Magpies are reportedly holding out for a fee between £65 million and £70 million, well above his estimated £40 million market value.
For now, this looks like early positioning rather than a genuine transfer battle. Both Liverpool and United would do well to have alternatives lined up, given how firmly Newcastle appear to be digging in.
