West Ham delay emerges for Harry Maguire as Manchester United transfer news emerges
West Ham are facing a delay in their bid to bring Harry Maguire to East London, as Manchester United are looking to sign another defender before they let him go, according to Claret and Hugh.
The online source reported on its website that Manchester United are holding the deal up as they have to find a replacement for their former captain before they allow him to complete a move to West Ham.
It was also shared that the club had initially hoped the deal would be finalised early next week, although that now seems unlikely. The Red Devils do have alternative options lined up, so there are hopes on both sides that the delay won’t last too long.
Hopes are it won’t take too long
West Ham would have known that Manchester United would need to sign a new defender before they allow Maguire to leave, so the delays shouldn’t come as too much of a shock to anybody involved with the deal.
There are hopes, however, that the delays won’t take too long as the Hammers want to add Maguire to their squad as soon as possible after the Premier League season kicked off on 12 August. The sooner Maguire signs, the sooner his impact on the team can be felt.
Maguire ticks a number of boxes in David Moyes’ typical recruitment focus. He is homegrown and has plenty of Premier League experience, as well as major international experience, which the boss views as a priority.
He is also physically dominant and has a powerful aerial presence, making him dangerous from set-pieces which are a key part of the Hammers’ goal threat. Lastly, his experience as Manchester United captain displays strong leadership ability, which West Ham need in the absence of Declan Rice.
In other West Ham news, the club want to sign a new number 9, with a Manchester United striker in their sights.