Manchester United are already looking to create a ‘contingency plan’ for if one of their stars with ‘immense experience’ leaves in the summer.
Manchester United seem to have finally turned a corner, sitting fourth in the Premier League table following a five-match unbeaten streak.
The Reds had won all four of their first four matches under the management of Michael Carrick, before drawing 1-1 with West Ham United at the London Stadium.
With the Reds now having their sights set on a Champions League spot for next season, speculation has already began regarding potential signings for the summer.
United have been linked with a host of names for central defenders, as well as midfielders, due to the upcoming departure of Casemiro, as well as the potential departure of the ‘fantastic’ Harry Maguire.
Maguire contingency plan in place
As reported by The Telegraph, United have entered the market for centre-backs, due to the fact that there is currently still no deal regarding a Maguire renewal.
“They are also in the market for centre-backs as, at the moment, Harry Maguire, whose contract runs out in the summer, has not agreed a new deal and contingencies are being looked at,” journalist Mike McGrath reported.
Maguire, who has reemerged as a brilliant defender under Carrick, would be a big miss and would need a high-quality replacement in order to fill his void.
Carrick clearly feels similarly about his experienced defender, as he labelled the 32-year-old as ‘fantastic’ following the Reds’ 2-0 win over Manchester City.
“It just shows you what it means for him,” said Carrick. “He was fantastic. Him and Licha [Lisandro Martinez] were so solid at the back.”
Should United part ways with Maguire?
Under Carrick, Maguire has started all five of the Reds’ matches, in which they have remained unbeaten throughout, keeping two clean sheets in the process.
In the absence of Matthijs De Ligt, whose return date is still unknown, the English defender has stepped up to the plate in bringing some much-needed experience and presence to the backline.
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At 32 years of age, Maguire’s time at Old Trafford may be coming to an end very soon, although it could be argued that the Reds could benefit from having the Englishman for an extra year.
With the likes of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven breaking through, United may have enough depth at the heart of their defence to cope without Maguire, although a high-quality replacement may be necessary.
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