Manchester United’s imminent signing of Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt could spell the end of Harry Maguire’s Old Trafford tenure.
De Ligt currently appears to be United’s number one defensive target as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS aim to bolster Erik ten Hag’s backline options ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season.
United reached out to De Ligt’s camp to declare their interest in the player, who is believed to be open to a reunion with Ten Hag in England. The Red Devils have already presented the Netherlands international with a contract offer and it’s understood he’s even prepared to take a pay cut to get the transfer over the line.
A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Ten Hag has spoken to De Ligt to clarify what his role would be in the team.
It was stated that the United boss informed the Bayern star that he would primarily deploy him next to Lisandro Martinez in a 4-3-3 formation.
That Ten Hag already has a solid plan in place for De Ligt undoubtedly leaves Maguire in a precarious position. The 31-year-old is thought to be one of the players United bosses are open to letting go in the event that a good offer for him is made.
If they manage to stay fit, De Ligt and Martinez are likely to be Ten Hag’s preferred centre-back partnership. This would mostly relegate Maguire to a place on the bench as a secondary option.
Simon Mullock of The Mirror also makes this point. He wrote for the newspaper, “Harry Maguire’s Manchester United career looks all but over after calls from Erik ten Hag and Dan Ashworth.”
“The England defender has seen his future grow increasingly uncertain over recent seasons. He was stripped of the club captaincy by Ten Hag and has seen his opportunities dwindle. And now, he could see his minutes decrease even more next season. Man United are committed to signing a new centre-back this summer.”
“While De Ligt appears sure to be on the move, Maguire now faces a tricky decision. The 31-year-old made just 18 Premier League starts last term and has just a year remaining on his contract. New sporting director Dan Ashworth is also ready to sell. He is desperate to not lose an asset that the club paid £80m for nothing next summer.”
Maguire has so far been linked to outfits such as AC Milan, Bayern Munich and West Ham.
However, a potential switch to the Hammers may now be out of the cards considering that they’ve just sealed a deal for Max Kilman for £40m.
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