Michael Carrick has managed to steady the ship at Old Trafford since taking charge as their caretaker back in January. He has led them in five league games and has helped them win four of those fixtures. This incredible run has made them one of the favourites to secure a Champions League spot.
While the former Manchester United midfielder has completely changed the mood in the camp, there is still a lot of work to be done to get the club back to their glory day. The Red Devils have some big plans for the summer, and reinforcing their backline is one of them. According to a report from Fichajes, United are looking to sign Malick Thiaw from rivals Newcastle United.
Thiaw has been doing wonders for the Magpies in the heart of the defence, and the Manchester-based giants are quite impressed with his performances. With Harry Maguire’s future uncertain, they do need to freshen things up at the back, and the 24-year-old can certainly help their cause.
After making a name for himself at AC Milan, Thiaw made the move to the Tyneside club last summer. He has managed to establish himself as a key figure at Newcastle in no time. He has been involved in 40 matches this term and has even contributed towards six goals.
While the Magpies have been a touch inconsistent, Thiaw has certainly delivered the desired performances. Given how comfortable he has been in the Premier League, United are now keen on taking him to Old Trafford. They want to build their defence around him for the long run.
Following his breakout season under Eddie Howe, the 24-year-old German centre-back is now a priority target for the Manchester-based club. If the Red Devils secure Champions League football for next season, the board will look to back Michael Carrick in the transfer market.
They will have a budget of around £200 million, helping the manager operate freely. The club will prioritise defensive reinforcement, and Thiaw will be at the top of their wishlist. However, signing him won’t be that straightforward, as his contract runs until 2029, which means the Magpies are in complete control of his future.
While he is currently valued at €40 million (£32.5 million), Newcastle paid around £35 million last summer. As a result, they would at least want to make a significant profit in case of a potential departure. Not only will United have to break the bank, but they will also have to present a solid project to lure him away.
