On Sunday, it was announced that Harry Maguire will not continue his duties as Manchester United captain.
Erik ten Hag stripped the world’s most expensive defender as captain, after three-and-a-half years in the role.
The 30-year-old still has two years remaining on his current contract with United, so it will be interesting to see what the future looks like for him.
There are several clubs that have shown interest in the England international in this summer transfer window, so he could end up joining another English Premier League outfit before the window ends.
We assess Maguire’s options.
West Ham United switch?
West Ham are one of the EPL sides that have been linked with Maguire this summer, and the switch to London could be a good move for him.
This transfer would be a good chance for Maguire to rediscover some of his form that he previously showed whilst with Leicester City and on international duty with England.
The Hammers have UEFA Europa League football to contend with next term after winning the Europa Conference League, so this could be appealing for Maguire knowing that he will still be playing in Europe.
Eddie Howe interested?
Newcastle United are another Premier League outfit linked with Maguire this summer and he could be a steal at £20million for the Magpies.
Eddie Howe’s side qualified for the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League and they will have to play significantly more games than last term, so creating a bigger squad will certainly be on the owners mind.
Sven Botman and Fabian Schar created a solid centre-back pairing last term, but Maguire could add some healthy competition to the regular back two to keep them on their toes.
Remain at Old Trafford
Although Maguire has had his captaincy stripped, this is not to say that Erik ten Hag does not have the Englishman in his plans ahead of next season.
The centre-back pairing that was most successful at United last term was Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, but if either got injured then Maguire was the back up.
Due to the captaincy being taken off Maguire, this might relieve a bit of responsibility from him, meaning that he could play with a bit more freedom, therefore increasing the quality of his performances.
