Manchester United is reportedly preparing to offer a new contract to defender Harry Maguire, valued at approximately £140,000 per week. This move comes as the club seeks to secure his future amidst strong interest from Saudi Pro League teams.
According to The Sun, Matt Hargreaves, United`s director of football negotiations, has reportedly initiated discussions with Maguire`s representatives. The club aims to finalize an agreement before the January transfer window opens, which would allow foreign clubs to approach him directly. Manager Ruben Amorim is understood to be a key advocate for Maguire`s contract extension, having reinstated the experienced player into the team`s leadership group earlier in the summer.
Amorim`s confidence in Maguire has been evident since his arrival. It was Amorim who activated a one-year extension clause in Maguire’s contract last January, securing his stay until 2026. Furthermore, he entrusted Maguire with the captain`s armband for a League Cup match against Grimsby Town in August, a significant moment as it was his first time leading the team since being stripped of the captaincy by Erik ten Hag in 2023.
Saudi Lure and United`s Response
However, United`s efforts could be challenged by the lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League, a region currently attracting many top players with substantial financial incentives. Reports suggest that Al-Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club, is keen on reuniting with Maguire, given their close relationship. Rival club Al-Ettifaq is also reportedly preparing a bid, with both Saudi teams prepared to offer remarkable salaries to entice the England international away from Manchester. For Maguire, a move to Saudi Arabia could represent a final major payday as his career approaches its later stages, also offering him the chance to play alongside Ronaldo again.
Manchester United is well aware of the Saudi threat and, according to reports, has no intentions of negotiating a pay cut for Maguire. His current weekly salary already decreased by 25 percent to around £140,000 after United failed to qualify for the Champions League in May 2024. Therefore, any new contract is expected to maintain these favorable terms, reflecting Amorim`s high regard for one of his most trusted senior players.
Maguire`s Perspective on His Future
Earlier this year, Maguire himself hinted at impending significant career decisions. He commented:
“Last year, the extension clause was in their hands, so I had no say. They simply activated it, and my contract was extended. This year, my contract is set to expire at the end of the season. I`m sure in the coming months, we will sit down and discuss our future plans, including whether they wish to extend my contract, or of course, the January transfer window will open again. I have a clear idea of what I want to achieve and where I want to be, though I prefer not to share it publicly. This is an amazing club to play for, and you`d be foolish to want to leave it prematurely.”
United`s stance last summer was unequivocal: they were not prepared to let him go. Despite interest from various clubs, including Premier League rivals and Serie A teams, Maguire chose to remain. He reportedly expressed a desire to conclude his career at Old Trafford, confiding in close friends his determination to fight for his place.
The Clock is Ticking
As January rapidly approaches, time is running out. Maguire will soon be eligible to engage in direct negotiations with foreign clubs, and Saudi teams are poised to make their proposals. Yet, United, with Amorim`s steadfast support, is determined to retain their experienced center-back in Manchester for at least another couple of seasons. In September, Maguire marked his 250th appearance for United, an achievement recognized by football director Jason Wilcox, who personally presented him with a commemorative frame – a rare gesture highlighting his continued value to the club. Since joining six years ago, Maguire has made 253 appearances, making him one of the longest-serving players in the current squad.
Furthermore, he remains one of Amorim`s most frequently selected players, having featured in 38 of the Portuguese coach`s 50 matches in charge. This is a remarkable statistic for a player many had considered past his prime at the top level. The ultimate decision now rests with Maguire: will he pursue one final, lucrative contract in the Middle East, or will he solidify his legacy and continue his resurgence under the iconic lights of Old Trafford?
