Yardbarker
x
Manchester United are ready to extend the contract of defensive ace amid Saudi interest
Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

Manchester United are ready to extend the contract of Harry Maguire, which expires next summer

Harry Maguire has been a divisive figure among Manchester United fans in recent years. At times, he looked on the verge of leaving the club, while at other times, the criticism grew so intense that his Old Trafford career seemed over. However, the picture has changed over the past year. Supporters now feel relieved to see the way Maguire has handled himself since the arrival of Ruben Amorim.

His role in the new back-three system has become crucial, and he has held the team together on several occasions. The Englishman’s winning goal in the Europa League quarter-final against Lyon remains fresh in the memory, while his strike against Leicester in the FA Cup, later ruled offside by VAR, still boosted his confidence. Today, Maguire is not only marshalling the defence but also emerging as a leader for his teammates.

Manchester United and Maguire’s contract issue

The BBC reported that the club extended Maguire’s contract by a year in January 2025, keeping him at Old Trafford until June 2026. According to TEAMtalk, there is now growing belief that he could even receive another extension. The player whose future once looked bleak has forced the management to rethink their stance with his consistent performances.

United made it clear during the transfer window that they would not consider any offers. Despite this, Saudi clubs recently expressed interest in signing the 32-year-old centre-back, but Maguire turned them down. His decision highlights his commitment to stay at United, at least for now. However, reports also suggest that if a big offer arrives in the future, the club may weigh up the financial implications.

The way forward

Maguire’s situation is no longer as precarious as it was two years ago. Having spent a huge sum on him, United now see extending his deal as financially sensible—ensuring he doesn’t leave for free. Ruben Amorim has also repeatedly underlined Maguire’s importance to the team, noting how his presence in the dressing room provides stability and confidence to younger players.

In recent months, the 32-year-old’s performances in the back-three system have improved, a setup he is familiar with from the England national team. He has never publicly expressed a desire to leave United and continues to show his determination to fight for his place until his contract ends. That said, if a lucrative offer arrives from the Saudi Pro League next summer, the club may consider it.

For now, though, Maguire should remain at United. His stability and experience are vital, especially given the defensive problems the team has faced. If he continues to perform at this level in the coming seasons, offering him a longer-term contract would not be a mistake. United need players who inspire confidence on the pitch, and Maguire has now firmly put himself back in that category.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!