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Football Insider

The Future of Harry Maguire at Manchester United: Insights on the Defender's Contract Speculations

Manchester United's interim head coach Michael Carrick has firmly rejected any January exit for Harry Maguire, despite reported interest from various Premier League clubs. The England defender's current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, sparking rumors of potential suitors competing for his services in the upcoming summer transfer window. Let's delve into the latest developments surrounding Harry Maguire's future at Old Trafford.

The Future of Harry Maguire at Manchester United: Insights on the Defender's Contract Speculations

Manchester United's interim head coach Michael Carrick has slammed the door on a January exit for Harry Maguire, with reports stating that the Red Devils have rejected 'several approaches' for the England defender this month. AC Milan and multiple Premier League clubs are said to have shown an interest but United will reject all approaches for the 32-year-old this month, with his current contract expiring at the end of the season.The Sun report that Maguire will remain at Old Trafford this month with the club set to reject all offers for a mid-season transfer. They are said to have received ‘enquiries’ from AC Milan and multiple Premier League clubs, with a battle set to ensue for the England international’s services this summer if his contract at Old Trafford expires.Maguire currently has just six months left on his deal and it ‘remains unclear’ whether he will sign an extension until at least 2027 or depart the club as a free agent, despite previous reports of contract negotiations back in October.Former head coach Ruben Amorim triggered a one-year extension to his deal in January 2025, citing a squad that was “starved of leaders”, and it is not yet clear whether his sacking will impact the future of Maguire under what is likely to be a new manager post-Carrick.Maguire is United’s third-most expensive signing and still holds the world record for a move by a defender, following his £80million (now $107m) move from Leicester City in 2019. He has certainly faced some challenging times at Old Trafford but has become somewhat of a fans’ favourite in recent seasons due to his leadership qualities and relentless effort for the team, with his late winner in a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in October serving as arguably the highlight of his time at United.This term, Maguire has missed 10 of the Red Devils’ 21 league fixtures through injuries and that might raise concerns for his long-term future, with the club already thought to be lining up Murillo as a possible replacement. For the moment, though, he is set to remain at Old Trafford. Carrick wants the club to reject all approaches for a mid-season transfer, while his No.2 Steve Holland holds Maguire in ‘high regard’ after the pair spent eight years together in the England set-up with Holland assistant manager to Gareth Southgate.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Maguire was a firm favourite of Amorim, who said in December 2024 that the veteran defender is an example for the rest of the squad.“He works really well – he is focused on the job and not what people say,” said Amorim. “He has no excuses, even if he had some tough moments.“I think he is an example. He is there to play, to help the team, and he’s trying to do that.”Maguire, in turn, paid his respects to Amorim in a post on his Instagram story after the Portuguese was dismissed from his role earlier this month.“Thank you for everything boss. I wish you all the best in the future,” read Maguire’s 14-word message.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingMaguire’s long-term future remains unclear, but he will hope to return to Premier League action in the Manchester derby this weekend, having made his long-awaited return from a hamstring injury in a brief cameo as a substitute in the FA Cup defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend.The 32-year-old retains an outside chance of securing a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad if he plays a starring role for United over the rest of the campaign, in what might be his last shot at a major international tournament. He last featured for the Three Lions in September 2024 and has not been named in a squad under Tuchel.The German could yet become United’s next permanent manager if he leaves his role at St. George’s Park after the World Cup, while Maguire will aim to have his future at club level resolved before the end of the domestic season.

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Maguire's Resolute Stance at Old Trafford

Michael Carrick's decisive stance on retaining Harry Maguire dispels any speculation of an immediate departure for the renowned center-back. United is said to have turned down offers from AC Milan and multiple Premier League clubs, emphasizing their commitment to keeping the player until the end of the current season.

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Contract Conundrum and Potential Departure

With only six months left on his current deal, Harry Maguire's future at Manchester United has been clouded by uncertainties regarding a possible contract extension. While the club has the option to trigger a one-year extension, the decision may hinge on managerial changes post-Carrick and the player's performance in the upcoming months.

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Maguire's Impact and Challenges

Despite facing injury setbacks and criticism, Harry Maguire has endeared himself to the Old Trafford faithful with his leadership qualities and commitment on the field. His memorable contributions, including a crucial winner against Liverpool, have solidified his place in the hearts of United supporters, making him a key figure within the squad.

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The Road Ahead for Maguire

As Maguire seeks to secure his spot in Thomas Tuchel's plans for the upcoming World Cup, his performances for United in the remainder of the season could prove pivotal. With ongoing uncertainties surrounding his contract and potential suitors circling, the defender faces a crucial period in determining his long-term future at the club.

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Managerial Influence and International Aspirations

The departure of former head coach Ruben Amorim and the potential appointment of a new manager post-Carrick could sway Harry Maguire's decision regarding his contract extension. Moreover, his aspirations for a spot in the England squad under Tuchel add an extra layer of significance to his performances at club level in the coming months.

Published on Jan 16, 2026