West Ham consider new offer for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire

West Ham United are considering a new offer for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire having been encouraged a deal can be agreed in January. Maguire was stripped of the United captaincy by Erik ten Hag in the summer and held talks over a move to east London.

It was reported the England international was keen to stay at Old Trafford to fight for his place in the first-team having started just eight Premier League games during the 2022-23 season, falling down the pecking order behind Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.

However, while on international duty this week, the defender explained the opportunity to join the Hammers ‘wasn’t there’ as the clubs failed to agree a fee. United were thought to be asking for £40million for his services.

Maguire’s Frustrations

Maguire started his first game of the season against Brentford prior to the international break and aired his frustrations over a lack of opportunities ahead of England’s game against Australia on Friday.

‘I am not going to sit here all my life and play once a month. If it carries on I am sure myself and the club will sit down and have a chat about things,’ Maguire said.

West Ham’s Interest

West Ham’s interest has not gone away with ESPN reporting they have been offered hope of reviving a deal when the January window opens, with United not expected to stand in Maguire’s way.

United’s defence has been decimated by injury in the opening months of the season with Martinez expected to be sidelined until December and Varane has also struggling to stay fit.

But with Victor Lindelof preferred by Erik ten Hag at the back, Maguire is expected to return to the bench once Varane is fit again with Jonny Evans also vying for starts. Luke Shaw, currently sidelined with injury, was also preferred at centre-half on occasion ahead of Maguire last season.

Kurt Zouma’s Future

West Ham’s hand could be forced in January with Saudi Pro League sides interested in signing Kurt Zouma. The former Chelsea star was handed the captain’s armband by David Moyes following Declan Rice’s departure in the summer with the club keen to tie him down to a new contract.

But Zouma is believed to be one of the names targeted by Saudi sides.

Conclusion

Harry Maguire’s future at Manchester United looks uncertain with West Ham United considering a new offer for the defender. With Victor Lindelof preferred by Erik ten Hag at the back, Maguire is expected to return to the bench once Varane is fit again with Jonny Evans also vying for starts. West Ham’s hand could be forced in January with Saudi Pro League sides interested in signing Kurt Zouma.