Harry Maguire's Manchester United contract expires this summer, but the defender's future is no foregone conclusion amid rumours of an extension
Manchester United's Harry Maguire faces a pivotal moment this summer as his contract nears its end. But the situation poses a dilemma for the club where he has been a defensive mainstay for seven years.
Despite experiencing ups and downs in form, Maguire has managed to maintain his reputation in Manchester. Some might argue that despite the scrutiny he has faced since his move from Leicester City in 2019, he has justified his £80million price tag over time.
However, the reality is the player will turn 33 in March and offers little in terms of resale value. The world's most expensive defender extended his contract with United for one year last summer but could now potentially leave on a free transfer.
This outcome is not certain, and Maguire may yet sign a new contract given his generally reliable performance this season. Much will hinge on whether Michael Carrick secures the permanent managerial role as Mirror Football evaluates Maguire's options.
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Man United extension
Currently one of United's top earners with a weekly wage of £200,000, Maguire will need to agree to a pay cut if he decides to renew his contract at Old Trafford. His next contract could be the final significant deal of his career, but United currently hold a strong negotiating position.
Currently, only three other United players are understood to earn more than Maguire: captain Bruno Fernandes, the outgoing Casemiro and fellow centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. However, it's undeniable there are significantly more than three players at Old Trafford who hold greater value than the England defender today.
Should Maguire agree to these terms, it's conceivable he could sign a new, shorter-term contract. Much of this will hinge on the player himself and his desire to remain part of the United squad.
In a similar vein to the two-year deal Virgil van Dijk agreed to stay at Liverpool last summer, Maguire could potentially continue further into his mid-thirties as one of the longest-serving United stars among the current group. While he may not have had the same impact as his Anfield counterpart, United at least know what they're getting with Maguire.
Serie A switch
One potential move being mooted for Maguire is a summer transfer to Serie A. After all, the Italian adventure has proved highly successful for former team-mate Scott McTominay, who has been outstanding at Napoli since his move in the summer of 2024.
The Athletic has reported representatives in Italy have reached out to Maguire's agent, keeping an eye on the player's situation. The appeal is clear, as it would keep Maguire in one of Europe's top leagues, which is arguably better suited to his style of play.
The Yorkshire-born player has developed a reputation for his composure on the ball, despite occasional dips in confidence over the years. The current Maguire exudes a more capable aura when in possession, a trait crucial for a defender's success in today's Serie A.
His prowess in aerial duels would also be an asset in a league that has shaped the careers of many defenders. Antonio Conte's Napoli have been linked with the player since McTominay's arrival, hinting at a possible reunion in Naples.
Turkey transfer
In recent weeks, there have also been strong reports about a potential move to Turkey. It is understood Super Lig clubs have reached out to Maguire's agent, hoping to pique his interest.
Several high-profile English players have joined the Super Lig in recent years, with varying levels of success. Tammy Abraham, Daniel Sturridge, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Dele Alli have all made the journey across the Mediterranean, often landing in Istanbul.
Signing with one of Turkey's top clubs usually offers the added advantage of a clearer path to Champions League football. Clubs like Galatasaray or Fenerbahce regularly participate in Europe's premier competition, providing an extra incentive for a move to the Super Lig.
Join Premier League rival
While some players may be drawn to experience football abroad towards the end of their careers, this might not be the case for Maguire. Should he wish to remain in England, there will undoubtedly be a number of interested Premier League clubs.
West Ham have been linked with the player on several occasions over the years. It's even believed the Hammers had all but signed a £30m agreement for the player in 2023, only for the deal to fall through.
At the time, it was speculated Maguire would agree to reduce his wages to around £120,000 a week to join West Ham. This gives an indication of how much United could potentially cut the player's salary if he signs an extension, as well as providing a benchmark for what rival clubs might expect to pay should they sign him.
Everton were also linked with the player during the summer of 2023, and the Toffees have a history of signing former United players. Maguire would fit David Moyes' preference for tall, robust centre-backs, and one could envision him fitting into a rotation alongside the likes of Michael Keane and James Tarkowski.