Man United transfer news: Red Devils 'open' to bids for defender

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to listen to bids for defender Harry Maguire.

The 31-year-old appeared to be heading towards the exit door last summer after falling down the pecking order in Erik ten Hag's first season in charge.

Maguire was on the verge of completing a move to West Ham United, but the move fell through due to a dispute over his wage demands.

The Englishman went on to force his way into Ten Hag's plans, featuring in 34 matches in all competitions, chipping in with four goals and two assists.

While Maguire may have revitalised his Man United career, it is currently unclear whether he will remain at Old Trafford for the 2024-25 campaign.

© Reuters

Man United open to Maguire offers

According to talkSPORT, Man United are willing to entertain bids for Maguire as they look to revamp their squad following an underwhelming Premier League campaign.

The 20-time English champions are wary of Maguire's contract situation, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the upcoming season.

As a result, Man United may view this transfer window as one final chance to command a decent fee and avoid the risk of him walking away on a free transfer next summer.

The former Leicester City man is believed to be attracting interest from clubs in Italy, and such a move would see him follow in the footsteps of Chris Smalling, who left Old Trafford for Roma in 2019.

© Reuters

Is Maguire likely to depart?

Although Maguire enjoyed a revival last term, Man United do not seemingly view him as an indispensable asset, especially as they are expected to make defensive additions this summer.

With Man United working to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich, Maguire may find it difficult to remain a starter for the 2024-25 campaign.

Ten Hag could favour a centre-back pairing of De Ligt and Lisandro Martinez, which would force Maguire to decide whether he wants to find regular game time elsewhere or settle for a fringe role at Old Trafford.

The experienced defender may have drawn criticism at certain stages of his Man United career, but he still has the quality to be a useful member of Ten Hag's squad should he stay at the club for next season.

Maguire has made 206 competitive appearances since joining the Red Devils from Leicester City in the summer of 2019.