Maguire Set for Man Utd Stay Amidst Transfer Interest

Amorim Backs Defender to Extend Old Trafford Tenure

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly ready to retain defender Harry Maguire, despite significant interest from multiple clubs. The England international, whose contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season, has seemingly rediscovered his place in the team’s plans.

Leadership Role Boosts Maguire’s Future

Once deemed surplus to requirements by former manager Erik ten Hag, Maguire opted against a move last summer. Following ten Hag‘s dismissal in October, Amorim integrated the £80 million centre-back into his setup, even triggering a contract extension in January.

Now 32, Maguire is free to negotiate with overseas clubs in January. However, sources suggest both the player and the club are keen for him to sign a new deal, potentially seeing him finish his career at Old Trafford. Talks regarding an extension have not yet commenced.

Amorim has placed Maguire within a six-man leadership group, alongside Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Tom Heaton, Noussair Mazraoui, and captain Bruno Fernandes. This inclusion signals a strong likelihood of him remaining at the club, despite approaches from five Premier League sides.

European Interest Knocked Back

Beyond domestic interest, two unnamed Italian clubs, along with three from the Premier League, have reportedly inquired about Maguire‘s availability. Suggestions of interest from Turkey and France have also emerged. However, these five approaches have been rebuffed, with no indication of an imminent departure.

“We have a leadership group now. It’s not just Bruno. It’s not just Harry. It’s six guys. They are responsible for the group. There are some things that in the last year I had to deal with and I said to them this season, you deal with that. Small issues are with you guys. You’re responsible. All these small changes, but I think it’s helping the group. We have Bruno, we have Harry, Licha [Martinez], Diogo, Tom and Nous.”

—Ruben Amorim, Manchester United Manager

United have been actively trimming their squad, with departures including Marcus Rashford (loan to Barcelona), Victor Lindelof, and Christian Eriksen on free transfers. Further exits are anticipated, with Jadon Sancho among those expected to leave.

Additional sales are anticipated to generate funds for further player acquisitions. Manager Amorim has already invested over £100 million in new talent, including significant moves for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, as well as young defender Diego Leon. A potential bid for striker Benjamin Sesko could further increase the club’s summer spending before the new season commences.