Former Manchester United captain Harry Maguire’s anticipated move to West Ham United has been called off after a £30 million transfer fee was agreed upon last week. The deal, which seemed almost certain, has now collapsed due to the delay in the defender finalising his exit from Manchester United. Although there’s the possibility of a revival in the future, the move is currently on hold as the Hammers grow increasingly frustrated with the waiting game.
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West Ham’s Deal for Harry Maguire Collapses in Shock Turn
Hammers Walk Away After Patience Wears Thin Over Decision
Jacob Steinberg reported the development, stating that West Ham’s patience wore thin as they waited for Maguire’s agreement to leave Manchester United and they are “not going ahead” with their interest. The 30-year-old had settled personal terms with the London side, but the club has been awaiting his decision regarding a pay-off from his current team.
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The Englishman’s financial situation is complex, as he received a substantial salary increase after the Red Devil’s Champions League qualification. Moving now would entail a reduction in his earnings, and he’s reportedly seeking around £7 million to make the move away from Old Trafford.
Maguire Prepares to Fight for Place Despite Game Time Struggles
The former captain has fallen out of favour under manager Erik ten Hag, with game time becoming more limited. The £80 million defender’s playing time diminished last season, with only eight Premier League starts to his name. However, there may still be hope for the centre-back as aims to battle his way back into the team, David Ornstein has reported that Ten Hag still considers him an “important squad player” adding that he is “happy for him to fight” for his starting role.
Gareth Southgate, England’s national team manager, cautioned the player that his international spot might be jeopardized if he remains on the sidelines. A transfer to West Ham would offer Maguire regular playing time, increasing his chances of securing a place in the England squad for Euro 2024.
West Ham Prepare Alternatives
Despite David Moyes’ strong backing of the deal, there’s apparent uncertainty within their ranks. The club’s recruitment department is reportedly considering alternative options, including Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah and Odilon Kossounou.
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Maguire’s potential move to West Ham, which might have seen him become club captain almost immediately, has been cast into doubt due to a lack of clarity surrounding the situation.
Englishman Hopes to Retain England Spot for Euro 2024
Maguire’s time at Manchester United has been a rollercoaster ride since his record-breaking £80 million transfer from Leicester in 2019. While he initially impressed and was named club captain by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, his form has wavered over the past couple of years.
He was stripped of the captaincy earlier this summer by Ten Hag, reflecting his recent struggles. Despite his limited club appearances, the defender remains a linchpin in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, starting in their last 11 matches across competitions.
The collapse of the West Ham move places increased pressure on the 30-year-old to secure regular playing time as he prepares battle to retain his England spot with fresh competition from rising talents like Levi Colwill and Marc Guehi coming to the forefront.
With Euro 2024 looming, Maguire’s need for consistent action is more crucial than ever. In defence of his contributions, he noted that his form at Manchester United remained positive even amid limited playing opportunities. As the transfer saga continues, the player’s future remains uncertain, leaving both clubs and fans eager for a resolution.
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[url=https://flic.kr/p/KNMxnF][img]https://live.staticflickr.com/8852/28752785421_c0597242b7_h.jpg[/img][/url][url=https://flic.kr/p/KNMxnF]West Ham vs Juventus, Olympic Stadium[/url] by [url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/g_travels/]G Travels[/url], on Flickr
