Latest Chelsea development could impact Harry Maguire’s future – opinion

Harry Maguire’s future at Manchester United is increasingly uncertain following Erik ten Hag’s decision to drop him from the game against Liverpool on Monday night.

Raphael Varane, who had not started a game prior to the Liverpool clash, was preferred over Maguire and the Frenchman’s display was his best in a United shirt.

Lisandro Martinez partnered Varane at the heart of United’s defence and the pair combined to produce the best defensive performance at Old Trafford for, arguably, several years.

That leaves Maguire at a crossroads. Retained as captain by Ten Hag this summer, he has now been dropped after just two games and the fashion in which his replacements played, it’s going to be difficult for him to get back in the side.

Read more: (Video) Jamie Carragher doubles down on Lisandro Martinez opinion after Liverpool display

Last week, it was reported that Chelsea were interested in signing Maguire this summer if they failed with an attempt to prize Wesley Fofana away from Leicester.

Now, the latest development on that front could seriously impact Maguire’s future at Old Trafford. According to The Athletic, Chelsea have had a third bid of £70m rejected for the French defender.

The London club are believed to be unwilling to go beyond the £70m mark and if they stand firm on that stance, other alternatives could be considered.

Maguire has three years remaining on his contract at United and a departure would leave Ten Hag light in that area, with Eric Bailly set to join Marseille on loan.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea follow up on their initial interest but as things stand, it’s a long way back for Maguire and Chelsea could offer the most realistic exit route for the England international.

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