According to the Sun, Manchester United’s search for a new centre-back might halt due to complications in Harry Maguire’s contract negotiations with West Ham United.
United had previously reached a tentative agreement with West Ham to acquire Maguire for £30 million. However, there has been a lack of progress in finalising the transfer deal.
The English star is still part of United’s first team, and manager Erik ten Hag has admitted that the centre-back will be included in the squad for Monday night.
The club’s management is open to offering Maguire a significant compensation package in order to accept a reduced salary at West Ham. However, Maguire is not satisfied with the financial terms presented by the Hammers.
Maguire is currently earning £190,000 per week at Old Trafford. West Ham have suggested a salary of approximately £120,000, which the defender considers inadequate.
Due to this situation, the East London side are now concentrating on pursuing Bayer Leverkusen star Odilon Kossounou. This move could potentially disrupt United’s transfer plans.
The English giants are actively searching for a new centre-back this summer. They have been linked with both Benjamin Pavard and Jean-Clair Todibo in the ongoing transfer window. Initially, it was reported that Ten Hag had encouraged the club’s management to pursue a deal for Pavard.
United have initiated discussions with Bayern Munich regarding their key player, a versatile defender capable of performing as a centre-back or right-back. Nevertheless, Jean-Clair Todibo remains a feasible alternative.
Todibo, who is 23 years old, holds an age advantage of nearly four years over his fellow countryman Pavard. The manager personally engaged in a phone conversation with Todibo at the beginning of July.
Both players surpass Maguire in their adeptness in playing the ball, and they exhibit strong skills in tackling and winning one-on-one challenges.
However, United’s potential pursuit of either player could be jeopardized if Maguire chooses to remain at the club.
The team’s intention is to sell the 30-year-old in order to obtain funds for securing a new centre-back. This strategy could be hindered if Maguire opts to stay at Old Trafford.
