Manchester United are reportedly ‘concerned’ about losing Harry Maguire on a free transfer at the end of the season
Manchester United are reportedly ‘concerned’ about the potential departure of Harry Maguire, following the confirmed exit of Casemiro. Maguire’s current contract with United is due to end after this season, and speculation continues to swirl regarding whether the England international will agree to an extension.
United activated an additional 12-month clause in Maguire’s contract in January of last year, which is now set to expire at the end of the current campaign.
Maguire, 32, has spent a significant part of the season recovering from injury but has emerged as a crucial figure in United’s defence since Michael Carrick took over as interim head coach last month.
The England international, who celebrates his 33rd birthday next week, is currently free to discuss a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside England, should he wish to depart United as a free agent. He has already rejected advances from Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers, and AC Milan this year.
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While a new deal is yet to be agreed, a Daily Mail report claims there is “concern” within United that they may lose Maguire at the same time as Casemiro, with the Reds keen to retain their experienced players, reports the Mirror.
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Earlier this season, Casemiro confirmed he would be leaving United at the end of his contract this summer, a move that will save the Reds millions of pounds.
Casemiro is currently earning £300,000 per week at United, and not handing the midfielder a contract renewal on the same terms will result in the club saving £15.6million annually.
What happens with Maguire’s future remains uncertain, with United reportedly eager to offer the defender fresh terms but seeking to reduce his £ 180,000-per-week salary. The England international, though, is seeking assurances regarding contract duration, which could present an obstacle.
Carrick has already highlighted Maguire’s significance to his vision at United, stressing the defender’s experience and leadership both in the dressing room and during matches.
“Harry’s an impressive character,” Carrick stated on Friday. “He’s had a great career so far. Hopefully there’s a lot more to come.
“He has been here in the journey and the experiences that he’s had, certainly since he’s been here and with England as well. I think it shows exactly what he is.
“I think we all know the player that he is and what he’s capable of doing. Again, the other night there [at Everton], I thought he was fantastic.
“Experience helps and his attributes help with that and his character, his willingness to put himself out there and he is really impressive and he has been really important for us.”
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