Liverpool have identified Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw as a potential long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, but face competition from Manchester United for the Germany international.
Neither club has opened formal negotiations for the 25-year-old, who has established himself as a regular at St James’ Park since joining Newcastle from AC Milan in August 2025. Both sides are understood to be continuing to monitor his progress ahead of possible defensive recruitment in 2027.
Liverpool monitor Newcastle defender Malick Thiaw
Thiaw’s performances in the Premier League have attracted attention because of his physical presence, pace and ability to defend in sizeable spaces. He is also regarded as a player with the experience to make an immediate impact rather than requiring a lengthy adaptation period.
Newcastle confirmed his arrival on a long-term contract last summer, after he made 85 appearances for Milan. He enjoyed a productive first campaign in England, making 35 Premier League appearances and scoring four goals, according to the league’s official statistics.
Liverpool’s interest is linked to the need to plan beyond Van Dijk. The club captain remains central to their defensive structure, but will turn 35 this season and the Merseyside club must eventually identify a successor capable of leading the back line.
Ronald Araujo is currently on loan from Barcelona and Liverpool have the option of making his move permanent for a reported £47 million. However, the club could still seek another centre-back, particularly one entering the prime years of his career.
Thiaw’s height, strength in the air and recovery speed would suit Liverpool’s intention to defend aggressively and leave space behind their back four. His ability to cope with one-on-one situations is another factor likely to appeal to Andoni Iraola’s recruitment team.
Manchester United are also assessing their options in central defence. Questions remain over the long-term positions of Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, while the club are expected to make defensive recruitment a priority during the next summer window.
Newcastle would be reluctant to lose Thiaw and are understood to value him at between £65 million and £70 million. His long-term contract gives the club a strong negotiating position, while there is no indication that the Magpies are actively seeking a sale.
The club’s wider transfer policy could nevertheless leave the door open to a major offer. Sporting director Ross Wilson has said Newcastle must continue to trade players as part of their long-term strategy, even though the club’s immediate preference is to retain important members of Matthias Jaissle’s squad.
For now, Liverpool and Manchester United are monitoring rather than negotiating. Thiaw’s form throughout the season is likely to determine whether either club makes a formal approach in 2027.
