Liverpool is looking to strengthen its defense with Malick Thiaw, a Newcastle United defender, as a potential replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who’s out of contract at the end of the season. Konate’s contract talks have stalled, with Liverpool offering a performance-based deal, but Konate is reportedly seeking a higher basic wage. If talks break down, Liverpool might consider selling him for around £40-50 million, with Real Madrid eyeing a free transfer in 2026.
Thiaw, a 24-year-old Germany international, has been valued at €80 million (£70m, $93.4m) by Newcastle. Manchester United and Bayern Munich are also interested, but Liverpool is reportedly making Thiaw their top priority to fill the potential void left by Konate ¹ ² ³.
Other options on Liverpool’s radar include Samson Baidoo, a young defender at Lens, and Marc Guehi, who’s been touted as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk. The Reds are also keeping an eye on Alessandro Bastoni, but Inter Milan is said to value him at around €90-100 million ¹ ⁴.
Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, are keen on adding a new senior centre-back to their squad for next season, given Konate’s uncertain future. Would you like to know more about Liverpool’s transfer plans or Malick Thiaw’s stats?