Liverpool and Manchester United Both Monitoring Newcastle Centre-Back Thiaw

Liverpool and Manchester United are both monitoring Newcastle defender Malick Thiaw. Both clubs have started planning for major defensive adjustments in 2027.

The 25-year-old Germany international has impressed since moving from AC Milan to St James' Park in 2025 and has established himself as a regular starter under Jaisle.

His Premier League experience, physical ability, and defensive capability in open spaces make him particularly attractive to the two clubs searching for long-term centre-back solutions.

According to an exclusive report from CaughtOffside, Liverpool have listed Thiaw as one of the potential successors to Van Dijk, while Manchester United are also closely monitoring his development. There have been no negotiations or direct contact between either side and the player at this stage, but both clubs are expected to continue sending scouts to watch him throughout the season.

Liverpool's interest is understandable. Van Dijk remains extremely important, but he is already 35 years old, and the Reds need to plan for the period after their captain. Araujo is currently at the club on loan from Barcelona and could make the move permanent, but Iraola may still want another centre-back in his prime.

Manchester United are also expected to make defence a priority next summer. The long-term futures of Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and De Ligt all remain uncertain.

The biggest obstacle comes from Newcastle. Reports indicate that they have no intention of selling Thiaw and would demand a fee of around £65 million to £70 million.

Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson acknowledged that player trading is important to the club's long-term strategy. According to The Guardian, after raising significant funds through player departures this summer, Newcastle are expected to continue conducting transfers in a strategic manner.

Thiaw appears to be particularly well suited to Liverpool.

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, he offers aerial ability and physical strength, while also having the recovery speed needed to defend the large spaces that can appear behind Iraola's aggressive defensive line.