West Ham ready to test Harry Maguire’s resolve to stay at Manchester United after Declan Rice deal completed
West Ham are ready to test Harry Maguire’s resolve to stay at Manchester United, according to the Telegraph.
The newspaper reported online (15 July) that Maguire is happy at Manchester United and keen to fight for his place after falling down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag.
But with Maguire needing to feature regularly this coming campaign to cement his place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024, the Hammers – whose coffers have been boosted by the sale of Declan Rice to Arsenal – are planning to see whether the offer of regular first-team football at the London Stadium could tempt the 30-year-old into a move.
Manager David Moyes has Maguire high on his list of centre-back targets but the East London club would prefer a loan move this summer rather than a permanent switch.
Interesting
Maguire is a difficult player to work out. He was brilliant at Leicester before his switch to Old Trafford and often puts in strong displays with England, yet he seems to struggle in a Manchester United shirt.
One potential reason for this might be the difference in environment and treatment from fans. In an England shirt, Maguire is often praised and clearly has a strong relationship with Southgate and his teammates. Meanwhile, with the Red Devils, he is often subject to criticism from supporters.
Some players will perform better when they feel more supported and this could be the case with the out-of-favour central defender. If he were to move to West Ham and feel a sense of love from his new fans, his performances may improve.
There is no doubt the player possesses quality, his confidence is clearly just low, and a move to the East London club could be exactly what he needs.
In other West Ham news, a deal could be getting closer for Declan Rice’s replacement.