Erik ten Hag recently relieved Maguire of his captaincy at Manchester United, handing the armband to Bruno Fernandes instead. It was the latest indication of how far he has fallen in the pecking order at center-back, where he had previously been surpassed by Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
Although it was thought that Maguire would stay and battle for his place, he has suddenly been given with a tempting escape route from Manchester United. According to reports on Wednesday, West Ham has reached an agreement in principle to sign him.
After their initial approach of roughly £20 million was rejected, they have now succeeded by proposing a transfer fee of around £30 million. Furthermore, Maguire should be able to agree on personal conditions after all.
It suggests that he is set to start on a new challenge with West Ham, which may give him another chance to establish himself.
Not only will he be able to resurrect his career, but he may also be able to demonstrate his true worth by becoming West Ham’s next captain.
Gabby Agbonlahor, a former Aston Villa striker, told talkSPORT: “I’m so happy for him.”
“Harry Maguire has had a difficult time at Manchester United, with fans all jumping on the bandwagon and booing him.” He makes a mistake in the preseason, which leads to a goal, and the spectators boo him.
“He hasn’t had a good time at Manchester United and has become the target.”
“I hope it goes through for West Ham, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s made captain and gets his career back on track.”
“It would be a fantastic signing for West Ham.” “Best wishes, Harry.”
West Ham is still looking for a replacement for Rice.
West Ham sold their own captain earlier this summer when they accepted a club-record deal from Arsenal for Declan Rice. The Hammers have yet to name a replacement for Rice as manager.
Maguire, at the age of 30, might be a candidate for leadership given the amount of experience he has behind him. On the other hand, it might be claimed that his form for Manchester United suffered when he became captain, as it arguably increased the burden on him.
Whatever happens, Maguire will be hoping to make the most of his new opportunity if and when he is eligible to join West Ham.
After Hull City, Leicester City, and Manchester United, they will be his fourth Premier League team. After winning the Conference League last season, they will be able to offer him a place in the Europa League the following season.
Maguire’s Manchester United career will come to a close with 175 games and one medal after winning the EFL Cup last season.