Harry Maguire considering his options after losing Manchester United captaincy; Maguire said on social media that he was “extremely disappointed” to lose the armband, adding: “I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt”; West Ham lead interest in England international
Maguire is being closely monitored by clubs in the Premier League and abroad, with West Ham among those interested in the England international.
West Ham are thought to be exploring the option of either a loan or a permanent deal for the 30-year-old defender. However, the Hammers are aware wages could prove to be a problem if a deal was to be agreed between the clubs.
United manager Ten Hag has always maintained any decision will effectively rest with the player, who is contracted to the club until the summer of 2025.
The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope and the Sun’s Charlie Wyett both believe it would be the right decision for Harry Maguire to leave Manchester United after a tough last few months with the club
Other options West Ham are looking at are Torino’s Perr Schuurs, Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah and Luiz Felipe from Real Betis.
Maguire confirmed on social media on Sunday that he is no longer captain of Manchester United following talks with Ten Hag.
It was reported earlier this month that Ten Hag was ready to remove Maguire from the role after the England defender’s limited appearances under the Dutchman last season.
The central defender made just eight Premier League starts, leading to ongoing speculation over his future at Old Trafford.
“After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain,” Maguire wrote on Twitter.
“He outlined his reasons to me and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt.
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Speaking on Soccer Special, Paul Merson admits it would be hard for Harry Maguire to leave one of the biggest clubs in the world in Manchester United but for the sake of his career he might need to
“So I wanted to say a massive thank you to the Manchester United fans for all their brilliant support whilst I’ve been wearing the armband.
“Since the day I took on the role, three-and-a-half years ago, it’s been a huge privilege to lead Manchester United and one of the proudest moments of my career to date. It’s one of the greatest honours in club football. I’ve done everything I possibly could to help United be successful – on and off the field.
“I will always be grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for first giving me the responsibility and I wish whoever now takes it on every success and they will have my full support.”
A Man United statement said: “Everyone at Manchester United thanks Harry for his contribution as captain over the past three-and-a-half years. The manager will announce the new captain in due course, after he has informed the players.”