Manchester United are reportedly showing interest in a Newcastle United star ahead of the summer transfer window. The Reds have turned a corner since Michael Carrick took over as caretaker coach, but are still set to be busy with continuing the squad’s rebuild.
A new centre-back seems to be on the agenda despite Harry Maguire reportedly entering talks over an extension. The Englishman has been vital alongside Lisandro Martinez, and Carrick has been able to turn to Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven off the bench.
Matthijs de Ligt’s fitness is a concern, given the Dutchman has been sidelined with a back problem since November. The club’s transfer chiefs might have this in mind regarding their interest in one of the Premier League’s new centre-backs.
Man Utd keeping an eye on Newcastle’s Thiaw
Newcastle’s frustrating campaign has seen them drop out of the top-four race, and this could come with repercussions. Eddie Howe’s squad is stacked with top talent, including Sandro Tonali, whose future is already in doubt.
According to BILD’s Christian Falk, Manchester United have been keeping tabs on the Magpies’ Malick Thiaw. The German defender joined the Tyneside outfit from AC Milan last summer for around £35m.
The 24-year-old has been superb for Howe’s side despite their underwhelming performance as a collective. He’s appeared 40 times across competitions, posting five goals and one assist, helping his side keep nine clean sheets.
Falk revealed to CF Bayern Insider that Bayern Munich aren’t interested in Thiaw despite reports suggesting they were tracking him. It was after this that he reported that the Red Devils “do have their eye on the centre-back.”
| Malick Thiaw (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 24 |
| Goals: | 4 |
| Assists: | 0 |
| Clean sheets: | 3 |
| Interceptions: | 0.9 |
| Tackles per game: | 1.2 |
| Ground duels won: | 1.5 (62%) |
| Aerial duels won: | 3.5 (69%) |
Thiaw has earned rave reviews since arriving at St James’ Park, with many believing he has been one of the best signings of the Premier League season. Howe called him an “outstanding talent” while praising his quick adaptation to English football.
Maguire’s future key
Manchester United’s priority this summer will be signing a new midfielder, with Casemiro leaving when his contract expires in June. Two new midfielders might be on the agenda if INEOS feels different profiles are required.
That puts Thiaw low down in the club’s list of needs, especially with Carrick already possessing five options. A move for the German could be considered if Champions League qualification is achieved, adding depth to the defensive ranks.
Thiaw will likely want to be a starter, and it feels as though his arrival is only possible if Maguire leaves. The 31-year-old’s impressive performances have many speculating that he will extend his stay at Old Trafford.
Reports suggest his teammates are pushing for INEOS to hand him a new contract and feel losing him would be a massive blow. He has appeared 16 times across competitions this season and been a mainstay in the team since Carrick’s return.
