Man Utd reject transfer approaches for Harry Maguire on Michael Carrick’s orders

Harry Maguire is set to remain at Old Trafford this month, with the club determined to reject any approaches for a mid-season transfer. United are understood to have received interest from AC Milan as well as several Premier League clubs, with a battle expected to develop for the England international’s signature this summer should his contract at Old Trafford expire.

The club’s new interim head coach, Michael Carrick, is keen to keep the 32-year-old defender in his squad, while his No. 2, Steve Holland, holds Maguire in high regard after working closely with him for eight years in the England set-up as Gareth Southgate’s assistant manager.

Maguire’s contract with the club is set to expire this June after former head coach Ruben Amorim triggered a one-year extension in January 2025. Amorim had previously said in December 2024 that the veteran defender was 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.”

It will be interesting to see whether clubs such as AC Milan make another move for Maguire in the summer, when he is set to become a free agent, as he would be a tempting and affordable option for many top clubs.

Maguire joined Manchester United in the summer of 2019 after breaking the world transfer record for a defender. The England international moved from Leicester City for a fee of £80 million and remains the most expensive centre-back in football history. 

The 32-year-old has made 256 appearances for the Red Devils, netting 17 goals and contributing nine assists in all competitions, and has emerged as a fan favourite after overcoming a challenging period.

So far this season, Harry Maguire has struggled with a number of injuries, missing 10 of United’s 21 Premier League matches. He is also believed to earn around £140,000 per week.

It remains uncertain whether the Red Devils will offer Maguire a new contract, but they are reportedly viewing Nottingham Forest’s Murillo as an ideal long-term replacement