Liverpool and Manchester United are both monitoring Newcastle United centre-back Malick Thiaw, according to reports from Caught Offside.
The 25-year-old German defender made the move to Newcastle last summer after impressing during his time at AC Milan in Serie A.
Despite Newcastle enduring a difficult campaign last term, Thiaw showed enough quality to attract attention from two of England’s biggest clubs.
Across 54 appearances in all competitions, the defender scored five goals and registered one assist, demonstrating an attacking threat rare for a centre-back.
Thiaw also contributed to nine clean sheets throughout the season, underlining his defensive reliability even within a struggling team.
Liverpool’s interest is driven in part by concerns over the long-term future of captain Virgil van Dijk, who is edging closer towards the end of his career at the top level.
The Reds are reportedly considering a move for a new centre-back in the next transfer window to plan for a post-van Dijk era at Anfield.
Manchester United’s motivation is somewhat different, with uncertainty surrounding the long-term futures of Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, and Lisandro Martinez.
United are believed to want an experienced defensive presence to support the development of younger players such as Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.
With two Premier League heavyweights now circling, Newcastle face a significant battle to hold onto Thiaw beyond the current season.
It remains to be seen which club will move first to make a concrete approach, with both sides weighing up their respective defensive needs heading into the summer window.
Liverpool are set to open their Champions League campaign against Atletico Madrid, while United prepare to face Sabah in their own European fixture shortly after.