One of Manchester United’s longest-serving players will have to accept a different salary structure to stay at the club, with his contract expiring next summer.
The club’s primary objective in the summer transfer window was clear: to solve last season’s goalscoring struggles. After netting just 44 times in the previous Premier League campaign, United invested a total of £214 million to overhaul their front line completely.
Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha arrived to spearhead the new attack, while Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Højlund, Antony, and Jadon Sancho all departed Old Trafford.
The new forward additions have enjoyed mixed success. Šeško and Mbeumo have both scored twice, while Cunha’s injury at the start of the season has meant he hasn’t really got going yet for his new club.
In the January window, as well as the 2026 summer window, United are set to sign at least one new midfielder, as well as bring in several defensive reinforcements as Rúben Amorim continues to shape his squad.
Man Utd looking to renew Harry Maguire’s deal before January
Despite previous reports that United had decided not to hand Harry Maguire a new contract, they have seemingly u-turned on that decision and, as reported by Stretty News, club chiefs have opened discussions with the 32-year-old to reach an agreement over new terms.
Having been praised by Amorim for his mentality and influence within the dressing room, INEOS are now keen to keep him, with his experience being a benefit both to Amorim and the younger players in the squad.
With just eight months left on his contract, it’s reported that Maguire would have to take a pay cut on his current £190,000-a-week wages to stay at the club, though the amount is yet to be made clear.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed this when writing for GiveMeSport, saying: “No [he won’t be receiving a pay rise]. It would have to be a different salary structure for Maguire in order to make it happen, talks are taking place.”
Maguire’s experience is a valuable asset
Maguire, who has previously been described as ‘brilliant’, has provided some solid performances since Amorim took charge after a turbulent time under previous manager Erik ten Hag.
His mentality and resilience in the face of intense scrutiny by the English press are extremely valuable assets to possess, and he can pass them down to younger members of the United squad.
Despite rumours of a move to Saudi Arabia coming out recently, United should do all they can to keep hold of the experienced centre-back who has become a key figure in the dressing room.
As the club’s transfer strategy shifts to signing younger and more inexperienced players, as seen by the signings of Leny Yoro and Diego León, Maguire’s advice for these younger players in the dressing room could prove to be invaluable.
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