Man Utd Enter Talks Over New Contract for Harry Maguire

Manchester United have started initial talks with Harry Maguire over a contract extension, but the parties are not yet in formal negotiations, GMS understands.

Maguire is heading towards the final six months of his current deal and is free to agree a pre-contract with foreign clubs from January 1. The 32-year-old is understood to be open to a one-year extension, while Manchester United are still discussing the best approach for the club. Further clarity could come before the year is out.

Maguire Valued on and Off Pitch for Man Utd

Maguire is valued on and off the field and underlined his important with a late winner at Liverpool before the October international break as Manchester United won at Anfield for the first time since January 2016. He made 40 appearances in all competitions last season, and should he stay beyond this season, could end up reaching 300 appearances for the club. With Maguire earning a £190k per-week wage, according to Capology, any extension is expected to be contingent on reduced or performance-related terms.

The England centre-back would like clarity on his future sooner rather than later so he can focus on trying to get Manchester United into some form of European football and ultimately give himself the best possible chance of selection for Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad. Maguire is also aware if Manchester United qualify for Europe, it will aid his chances of staying at Old Trafford.

One of the challenges of this season is giving game time to the entire squad with only domestic football on the calendar, and Manchester United already out of the League Cup after a shock loss at Grimsby Town.Ruben Amorim praised Maguire in the aftermath of his Anfield heroics, but refused to be drawn directly on his future.

“He’s a massive player for us, so I’m really happy,” said the Manchester United boss. “But he needs to continue. That game is in the past. That goal is in the past. Let’s move forward to the present and the future.”

Maguire is yet to meaningfully engage with other clubs in case he leaves Manchester United, but several suitors have held a historical interest. West Ham came close to signing Maguire in summer 2023 before he decided to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place. The Hammers are still in the market for a new defender, but are expected to add one in January.

It is not thought Maguire, or Manchester United, would consider a mid-season exit. Saudi clubs are also monitoring Maguire’s situation, but no encouragement to date has been given that the ex-Leicester City defender is interested in moving to the Middle East.

New York Red Bulls also made an informal enquiry last year 2024. As it stands, both Maguire and Manchester United are giving priority to each other as both parties determine if an extension is viable. Other clubs will only start to more seriously emerge if progress on a new deal isn’t made between now and the end of the year.