Former Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann has suggested the club should consider a summer move for Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw. According to reports, however, Newcastle would demand a fee of around £80 million for the German centre-back, a figure that would represent a significant profit on their initial investment.
Newcastle signed Thiaw from AC Milan for £34 million last summer as part of a major squad overhaul. While several of their other signings have struggled, Thiaw has established himself as a key figure at St James' Park, making 50 appearances this season and scoring five goals. His performances have come amid a difficult campaign for Eddie Howe's side, who have slipped away from the European places.
Hamann, speaking via Liverpool.com, endorsed the potential transfer, stating that Thiaw is a "talented player" and a "physical" presence who reminds him of current Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. He acknowledged that Thiaw's profile may be lower due to playing for a struggling team but believes he is a player Liverpool "will have on their radar." The 24-year-old is part of the German national team setup but is not currently considered a first-choice starter ahead of Nico Schlotterbeck and Jonathan Tah.
The Telegraph reports that Newcastle's asking price of £80 million is designed to ward off interest, with the club keen to retain Thiaw for their long-term project. A sale at that price would see the Magpies net a £46 million profit after just one season. German journalist Christian Falk has previously noted that Manchester United also have their eye on the defender, while dismissing links to Bayern Munich.
For Liverpool, any move would come amid ongoing contract talks with Konate, who recently confirmed an agreement on a new deal is "close." The potential pursuit of Thiaw suggests the club's recruitment team, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, is assessing defensive options regardless. Liverpool have also been linked with other Newcastle players, including Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, though recent reports suggest their interest in Gordon has cooled.
The suggestion from Hamann highlights the broader scrutiny on Newcastle's transfer strategy following a season of underperformance. While the club would prefer to build around successful signings like Thiaw, their financial position and the need to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules could make substantial offers difficult to refuse. For Liverpool, a move would represent a major investment in a defender entering his prime, potentially adding depth and competition in the heart of Arne Slot's defence ahead of the new campaign.
