Manchester United face a dilemma in the negotiations for Harry Maguire’s proposed new deal, with the defender able to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from January 1.
Maguire’s current terms expire at the end of the season, but United have the option to trigger an extra year to 2026. However, should Maguire agree to move to a team abroad next month, that might remove United’s clause.
The matter would become complicated legally if the 31-year-old centre-back wants to push through a free transfer, as he is entitled to next summer as matters stand.
Ultimately, should United try to activate Maguire’s plus one after he has agreed with another team then FIFA could step in to resolve. Typically, world football’s governing body favours players in such disputes.
United are in talks to give Maguire a new contract beyond the extra season, with him revealing earlier this week that conversations have so far been “really positive”.
But there is an element of time pressure for United to find a solution, with Maguire able to talk to foreign clubs in less than a fortnight.
Napoli are looking at defenders and are said to see Maguire as an attractive option, especially after the success of his United teammate Scott McTominay. Head coach Antonio Conte is fond of players from the Premier League.
Fenerbahce, managed by Jose Mourinho — who considered Maguire when United boss — have a history of signing from England. Fred and Sofyan Ambrabat are in their squad. Galatasaray are keeping track of Maguire’s situation too.
In England, Ruud van Nistelrooy admired Maguire during their time together at United, and Leicester City offer an emotional pull for him. Maguire spent two years at the King Power Stadium before moving to United for £80million in 2019.
That price tag has sometimes made life tough for Maguire at Old Trafford, but after suffering a dip of form he is enjoying a good season when featuring, particularly at Villa Park and against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, when he shackled Erling Haaland. He also scored a late equaliser off the bench at Porto in the Europa League.
He has made eight starts and five substitute appearances, and looks set for more opportunities in Ruben Amorim’s back three system.
Maguire took the captain’s armband off Bruno Fernandes in United’s 4-0 win over Everton earlier this month and Amorim is said to appreciate his leadership qualities.
(Top photo: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
