Manchester United could find themselves embroiled in a legal battle to keep control of centre-back Harry Maguire, who they have attracted interest from several clubs according to a report.
The divisive defender signed a six-year deal when he arrived at Old Trafford for record of 80 million euros in the summer of 2019. That initial contract also included an extension clause which United can activate to keep Maguire in Manchester for another 12 months.
However, the club has not activated this measure. When you enter the last six months of your existing agreement, Maguire will be able to sign a pre-contract with any foreign party from January 1, 2025.
Legal complications could arise if United trigger the extension clause in Maguire’s contract after he agrees to leave, he said. The Athletic. The report does not contain any suggestions as to what the resolution of this hypothetical scenario would be, but it does name four clubs interested in the 31-year-old.
Series A Title challengers Napoli stand out as the biggest admirers of Maguire’s unique skills. Manager Antonio Conte has developed a reputation for stockpiling former Premier League stars.
After leading Inter to the Italian title with a squad that included Romelu Lukaku, Alexis Sanchez, Ashley Young and Christian Eriksen, the former Chelsea manager added the Scottish duo of Billy Gilmour and former United midfielder Scott McTominay in the Naples squad during the summer.
Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and Turkish rivals Galatasaray are also believed to be interested in Maguire.
Premier League Leicester City strugglers may be lining up a reunion with their former player. Foxes boss Ruud van Nistelrooy spent the first half of the season at Manchester United with Maguire, initially as Erik ten Hag’s assistant before a short provisional period. While fond memories of his time at the King Power Stadium may be attractive to Maguire, relegation to the Premier League for Leicester would surely complicate any deal.
Despite the potent potential for a midseason legal battle, Maguire revealed that talks over a new contract with United were “really positive” earlier this season.
