Harry Maguire to West Ham back on as Manchester United make transfer decision
Tim Steidten must act now to secure one-time West Ham United target Harry Maguire with news emerging that Manchester United are willing to negotiate for a cut-price fee.
The Hammers were reportedly interested in bringing the England international to the London Stadium this summer [GiveMeSport], but a move failed to materialise with Maguire opting to remain at Old Trafford and fight for his place.
That same happened 12 months prior when a £30million switch to London Stadium collapsed late on due to personal terms [The Guardian].
Erik ten Hag has since brought Leny Yoro and Matheus de Light to Manchester United to bolster his defensive options and, with the Frenchman sidelined with a long-term injury, Maguire has still seen his minutes limited in the North West this season.
The Daily Star [13 October] reports the club are willing to listen to offers as low as £10m for the 31-year-old, who has now been deemed surplus to requirements.
Steidten must ensure the Irons are in position to secure the long-time target, with interested parties certain to present themselves at the cut-price valuation.
Tim Steidten can’t delay Harry Maguire move for West Ham United
While West Ham stole the headlines throughout the summer as Steidten worked to build a side capable of competing for a European spot in the Premier League this season, he made one glaring error in his recruitment.
Julen Lopetegui has only Max Kilman, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Jean-Clair Todibo as senior centre-back options at his disposal this season – one long-term injury and the Hammers could be in serious trouble.
Steidten has since attempted to rectify the problem for the Irons in the free agent market but to no avail – preferred target Mats Hummels opted to move to AS Roma [Gianluca Di Marzio] and they then missed out on former Liverpool defender Joel Matip, who announced his retirement from football after drawn-out negotiations with the club.
The Hammers have been presented with a golden opportunity to bolster the defensive options with Maguire. Steidten must learn from his mistakes and act swiftly to secure his signature in East London.
While he may find himself on the fringes at Old Trafford when Man United have a fully-fit squad, he would become an important player for West Ham as he brings a wealth of Premier League and European experience to a side still finding its feet.
After the frivolous spending spree conducted this summer, the finances will be tight to bring in more additions, and not many with Maguire’s experience will be available at the same cost. West Ham cannot afford to let another target slip through their fingers.
In other West Ham news, Tim Steidten must avoid a transfer mistake at the Hammers amid Alexander Sorloth development.
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