Man Utd Faces Fresh Heartbreak as Another Key Star Eyes Summer Departure
Manchester United are reportedly "worried" about Harry Maguire's potential departure from Old Trafford, as they have not yet reached an agreement on a contract extension with the central defender.
Maguire has endured significant challenges in recent seasons, including losing his captain's armband alongside numerous personal and professional difficulties. He faced criticism from supporters at both club and international level, and it required his own determination to turn down a previously agreed move to West Ham United during summer 2023.
Currently, the 32-year-old has regained his place as a regular in United's preferred starting lineup. However, this situation may not continue unless he commits to new terms, as his current deal runs out in four months. The Daily Mail reports that United executives are anxious about potentially losing him alongside Casemiro in the same summer.
The Brazilian midfielder's intended exit when his contract concludes has already been confirmed. Should Maguire also leave as a free agent, it would represent a considerable setback.
While not necessarily from a monetary perspective—neither veteran would likely fetch substantial transfer fees at this stage of their careers, and removing both wages would free up $38.5 million (£28.6 million) yearly for reinvestment—the Sheffield native brings invaluable experience to the squad.
Carrick Hopes Maguire Signs New Contract
Carrick Hopes Maguire Signs New Contract
This wealth of experience is precisely what makes Maguire such an asset currently, according to Michael Carrick, who would welcome the seasoned defender remaining at the club.
"I believe as your playing days progress, when you're young everything feels fresh and exciting, you're bold and haven't accumulated many battle scars," the interim boss explained to the media.
"You reach your prime years feeling confident, though you've naturally experienced some highs and lows. The wisdom you've accumulated then enhances your abilities; that perfect balance of maintaining physical capability while drawing on experiences to anticipate situations.
"Experience is crucial, it's difficult to quantify just how precious that can be. Harry has accumulated considerable amounts of it through various circumstances at this football club."
Should Maguire fail to extend his stay, it would force United to pursue a center-back during the summer window, when their main focus should be strengthening central midfield, potentially spreading their resources thin.
Without Maguire, the defensive options of Lisandro Martínez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven appear insufficient, particularly with the first two currently sidelined and the younger pair being just 20 and 19 years old.
Maguire's World Cup Chance Improves
Maguire's World Cup Chance Improves
Fitness issues have limited Maguire to just one England appearance over the past two years—causing him to miss Euro 2024. His most recent international outing dates back 18 months.
With his return to full fitness, there's renewed hope of rejoining the England setup ahead of the World Cup. Limited depth at center-back—beyond Marc Guéhi—suggests there could be an available position in England's first team, despite Maguire's absence throughout qualification.
However, inclusion in forthcoming friendlies against Japan and Uruguay will likely prove decisive. Should Thomas Tuchel overlook Maguire for what represents the final international gathering before World Cup squad selection, his chances of making the summer tournament appear slim.
The 2018 World Cup marked Maguire's breakthrough moment, starring for England during their run to the semifinals. He had earned only five caps before that tournament, yet within a year was joining Manchester United as the world's most expensive defender.