Given the injury records of several Manchester United defenders, it makes sense for INEOS to try to reinforce in that position in the summer.Matthijs de Ligt, who was the star performer in the first h...
Given the injury records of several Manchester United defenders, it makes sense for INEOS to try to reinforce in that position in the summer.
Matthijs de Ligt, who was the star performer in the first half of the season, has remained sidelined for three months now.
Lisandro Martinez has also picked up a knock, which was initially expected to keep him out for only one game. It has now stretched to three, which shows how his body seems to be breaking down under the force of several serious injuries since his move to United.
Luke Shaw‘s injury record cannot be trusted, while Harry Maguire is yet to agree a contract extension. It is clear the Red Devils could do with a top-class centre-back.
Why United need a new CB
INEOS prefer Premier League-proven stars, which explains the links with Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur.
However, the Netherlands international seems to prefer a move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona at this point.
Another English top-flight star who has caught INEOS’ fancy is Newcastle’s Malick Thiaw. Despite the Magpies’ indifferent form, the German has been a show-stopper.
He has five goals and one assist to his name, and he has helped keep nine clean sheets in all competitions.
Malick Thiaw has been excellent despite Newcastle’s struggles
Naturally, the former AC Milan star’s form has attracted plenty of interest, with both Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly in the race to sign him.
However, according to Teamtalk, Newcastle have categorically informed suitors that he is not for sale. Only a ludicrous offer will change their minds.
“Newcastle United have poured cold water on mounting speculation linking Malick Thiaw with a sensational Premier League switch to Liverpool or Manchester United, with sources insisting the star defender is going nowhere and is categorically NOT FOR SALE.
“His form has inevitably sparked interest from big hitters, with reports claiming Liverpool and Manchester United are among those eyeing a summer swoop. But sources close to the Magpies have moved quickly to shut down the claims.
Newcastle respond to United’s interest
“We understand there is nothing to the rumours, with Thiaw loving life on Tyneside after penning a lucrative four-year contract, running until 2029, upon his arrival.
“Any move would require a colossal fee, with the club under no pressure to cash in on a player who has transformed their defensive frailties into strengths.”
Newcastle had signed the Germany international for £35 million. United simply do not have the resources to pay twice that fee, especially with the club likely to sign two midfielders and a winger in the summer.
Feature image George Wood via Getty Images
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Category: General Sports
