Reports suggest that West Ham and Manchester United have arrived at a ‘preliminary agreement’ for the acquisition of Harry Maguire.
The 30-year-old defender, who became a part of United in 2019 for an £80 million fee that set a record at the time, has been strongly associated with a transfer this season.
West Ham has consistently shown their interest, and although their initial £20 million offer for Maguire was turned down last month, they countered with a £30 million proposal, a valuation deemed acceptable by United.
In fact, West Ham have an agreement in place to sign the England international, according to Sky Sports reporterDharmesh Sheth, who says the deal is worth £30 million.
He goes on to claim that personal terms are ‘not expected to be a problem’ but there is still work to do on details regarding an exit from Old Trafford.
West Ham, meanwhile, are cautiously optimistic of completing a transfer.
Maguire has struggled for first-team minutes of late under Erik ten Hag. He made just eight Premier League starts last season, playing second fiddle to the likes of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
That being said, interest for Maguire this summer has been high.
Spurs are said to have contacted Manchester United over a potential transfer, with theDaily Mailclaiming the North London club ‘made checks’ on the defender’s current situation ahead of a possible bid.
Newcastle were also linked with a possible loan move for Maguire but it appears West Ham have won the race with a £30 million bid.
Earlier this month, during United’s pre-season tour of America, Erik ten Hag opened up on what Harry Maguire must do to return to the Manchester United first-team.
“I will not say that Harry isn’t part of this group. He has to fight for his position,” he said.
“He is a very good centre-back, and I believe in the potential of Harry Maguire. “It’s just that he has to prove himself and fight his way into the team. It’s up to him, and I think he can do it.
“See his competition, It’s tough when you’re competing with Rapha Varane and Victor Lindelof. It’s huge competition. That has nothing to do with the belief.
“I have often chosen a player ahead of Harry, that’s true. But that says nothing about me not believing in him. He has to show he is better for the team than Rapha or Victor. I think that’s a normal situation in top football.
“When you are at Man United you have to fight for your position and bring your skills in and prove you are the best for the team, and contribute the most.”