How close Harry Maguire is to joining Man Utd revealed with club confident about transfer

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Maguire since his heroics helped England reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2018.

The Red Devils stepped up their interest this month as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer attempts to reinvigorate his playing squad after a dismal end to the season.

ESPN have now claimed that United are ready to offer £60million for the defender in the coming days.

However, it’s said there is no feeling at Old Trafford that a breakthrough is close or a deal is imminent.

Leicester are under no pressure to sell financially, but could be forced into agreeing a deal after Sky Sports revealed that Maguire is keen to leave.

Their report revealed that the former Hull City defender wants to play at Old Trafford despite their failure to qualify for the Champions League.

“Manchester United say that to sign him, that deal is very much alive, Sky Sports News have been told,” presenter Tom White said late last week.

“Leicester have made it clear that they have no interest in selling at the £70m asking price that Manchester United have offered.

“That’s especially after United paid £50m for Aaron Wan-Bissaka who doesn’t have quite the same experience.”

There have been rumours that Leicester will hold out for a record £70m for their first-choice central defender, but Solskjaer is adamant that his side will not be forced to overpay for anyone this summer.

“We’re still in the market looking to do some business, but we’re patient,” said the former Molde boss.

“We’re Manchester United. We don’t have to sell and don’t have to overpay.

“You have to have the right players at the right price.”

Timeline of Manchester United’s interest in Maguire

– Harry Maguire plays well at the World Cup with England, netting in the quarter-final against Sweden alerting Manchester United to his talents.

– United make their interest official in Maguire to Leicester.

– The Foxes demand £75m for the England international to leave which Ed Woodward refuses to pay.

– After the transfer window officials at United claim they were ready to pay £100m for the right profile of defender. Raphael Varane is mentioned as the sort of player they wanted.

– United change their plan to short-term options rather than long-term ones with Varane being a four-time Champions League and World Cup winner.

– The Red Devils led by Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have their worst defensive top flight season since 1978-79.

– Manchester United and Solskjaer settle on a new transfer strategy with an emphasis on young players and a preference for British additions.

– United make a £70m bid for Harry Maguire on July 2 as they look to get a deal over the line, it’s rejected.

source: express.co.uk