A report suggests Manchester United have rejected Barcelona’s attempt to sign Harry Maguire.
Bizarre as it sounds, The Sun claims Barcelona were interested in signing Maguire this summer, despite his worrying form in a Manchester United shirt last season.
It is understood that United were not willing to part ways with Maguire because new manager Erik ten Hag is keen to work with the centre-back next season.
Moreover, United appear to be closing in on a deal for Barcelona midfielder De Jong.
It would be a much-needed boost for Ten Hag and the squad if De Jong is able to join the squad before they fly to Thailand for the first phase of the pre-season tour.
With several players leaving this summer, at least 11 due to expiring contracts, Ten Hag can’t afford to get rid of every player who performed poorly last season because he wouldn’t be left with enough players to field a team.
United are struggling to sign a centre-back as it is, but lose Maguire and we’ll definitely need two defensive additions this summer.
It could go in Ten Hag’s favour that so many players will get a chance to turn things around under the new manager, especially if he can make them believe again.
Ten Hag should consider the swap deal for Harry Maguire, as he will not improve on last season.