Harry Maguire will reportedly have to leave Manchester United this summer if he wants to secure regular action during the 2024-25 campaign.
The England international was strongly linked with a move away from Old Trafford last summer, with West Ham United believed to have had an offer accepted for him.
However, Maguire decided to remain at Man United, and despite some injury issues, the centre-back made 31 appearances at club level last term.
The 31-year-old missed the end of the 2023-24 campaign due to a calf problem, which also ruled him out of Euro 2024, but he is expected to be back for pre-season training next week.
Maguire is seemingly facing an uncertain future, though, with Man United said to be on the verge of securing the signing of Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich.
© Reuters
De Ligt's arrival could lead to Maguire leaving
According to The Mirror, Man United head coach Erik ten Hag has told De Ligt that he wants to build his defence around the Netherlands international.
De Ligt is therefore expected to be one of the two starting centre-backs next season, with Lisandro Martinez also guaranteed to be in the XI, providing that he is fit and available.
Maguire will potentially have to rely on either of the two picking up injuries for him to feature, but there is also competition from Victor Lindelof and Willy Kambwala.
Jonny Evans, meanwhile, remains in talks with the 20-time English champions over a new one-year deal.
There have been suggestions that Man United want to sign two new centre-backs this summer, with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite remaining a target even if De Ligt's deal goes through.
© Reuters
Maguire could call time on Man United career
After a testing 2022-23 season, Maguire was much-improved last term, and he would have made a lot more appearances had he not had fitness problems.
The ex-Sheffield United youngster's contract is due to expire next summer, though, and although Man United have the option to activate an additional year, they could decide to cash in.
Maguire has made over 200 appearances for the Red Devils, and he was initially excellent in the middle of the defence, but it has been difficult for him to produce performances on a consistent basis.
West Ham are unlikely to make a move this summer, having signed Max Kilman from Wolverhampton Wanderers, but there will certainly not be a shortage of interest in Maguire.
De Ligt's arrival would send out a clear message to Maguire, and it might be best for both parties if they part ways during the summer transfer window.
Matt Law
