Manchester United ‘reveal Harry Maguire transfer stance’ amid contract uncertainty
Manchester United have made a firm transfer stance on defender Harry Maguire’s future at Old Trafford.
The 32-year-old did not start Man United’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on the opening weekend, but Maguire wanted a late penalty against Arsenal after coming off the bench.
Maguire, who earned a one year contract extension in January, was a substitute in preference of fellow defenders Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw in the back three.
The Red Devils have not strengthened their defence with Ruben Amorim having instead bolstered his attack, with Matheus Cunha an impressive performer against Arsenal.
Maguire part of Amorim’s plans
Amorim may not have started Maguire against Arsenal, but the Portuguese manager does want to sell the centre-back this summer.
As revealed by The Times [21 August], Man United have stated Maguire ‘is not for sale’ despite only having a year left on his deal at the club.
Man United could recoup a transfer fee for Maguire in this window, but Amorim wants to keep the experienced defender as part of the squad.
Maguire arrived at Old Trafford from Leicester City in 2018 for a then world record fee for a defender.
Maguire not part of Man United problem
Football Insider Verdict
Maguire has reignited his Man United career under Amorim, with the manager’s three at the back system which suits the England international.
The experience Maguire can bring on and off the pitch is also key, with Man United having shown a lack of leadership at times in recent seasons.
| Appearances | 247 |
| Goals | 15 |
| Assists | 8 |
On the evidence against Arsenal, Maguire may only be a squad player for Man United this season, but keeping him on board means Amorim can spend transfer funds elsewhere.
The goalkeeper position has come under greater scrutiny following Altay Bayindir’s weak showing against Arsenal, whilst there have been concerns expressed about Man United’s midfield.
Amorim has positions of more priority than centre-back where the back three dealt well with Viktor Gyokeres on his Gunners debut.
Man United’s problem wasn’t defensively last season, they conceded only three goals fewer than sixth placed Aston Villa.
It was in attack where the Red Devils struggled and having addressed that in the window, Amorim can be hopeful of a more enjoyable campaign.