Those who thought that the saga involving West Ham, Manchester United, and Harry Maguire in the European transfer market had come to an end were mistaken. Last Sunday (28), the London club reopened negotiations with the Red Devils for the English defender.
The Old Trafford team provided new updates on the potential transfer. Despite West Ham reigniting their interest in Maguire, the departure of the defender from Manchester United seems increasingly unlikely. “Sky Sports” reported that the deal is unlikely to be sealed. The player is under contract with the Red Devils until June 2025.
Back in August, the Hammers made a £30 million (€35 million) offer for the defender, which was accepted by Manchester United’s management. However, Maguire’s stance rendered the deal unfeasible, yet the London club hasn’t given up.
Reasons for Maguire to Stay at Manchester United
Several reasons can explain why the three-time European champions are unlikely to offload Maguire in this transfer window. The primary reason remains the same as before: the defender wants a substantial financial compensation to change clubs.
He earns a significant salary at United and doesn’t wish to leave “empty-handed” as he would have to accept a decrease in wages in London. Furthermore, Manchester United doesn’t want to let him go on loan. Maguire is still considered an important part of the United squad.
According to journalist Simon Jones of “Mail Sport,” the defender showed openness to the possibility, but the club doesn’t want that to be the path. “Talk Sport” also revealed that the Red Devils are expected to resist letting the player leave, especially after the potential injury to Varane in the last game against Nottingham Forest.
The club fears being short of options in defense, as happened at certain points during the last season. Currently, coach Erik Ten Hag still has Lisandro Martínez, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans for the position.
