United “divided” over future of Carrick favourite, he will take unbelievable step to avoid INEOS’ axe – report

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire’s desire to remain at Old Trafford has been reinforced by his latest move, according to a new report. Out of Contract Maguire‘s contract expires at the end of the season, with a new deal yet to be offered, given that he turns 33 in March. The English centre-back – who has an outside chance of reclaiming his spot in the Three Lions squad for the World Cup – is one of United’s highest earners, with a weekly salary of around £200,000. One of INEOS’s biggest priorities since assuming control of the football operation has been to drive down the club’s exorbitant wage bill, with the planned exits of Casemiro and Marcus Rashford this summer exemplifying this push. Consequently, the prospect of re-signing an ageing centre-back who is not a guaranteed starter on big money is a distant prospect. However, the i Paper reveals United executives view Maguire’s contributions “on and off the pitch” as crucial, given the dressing room is “devoid of leaders”. The former Leicester City star is “very highly thought of” at Old Trafford, with many young players “look[ing] up to him”, while his imperious performances under Michael Carrick have served as a timely reminder of what he can still bring to the table. The caretaker boss is a “huge fan” of Maguire, which further complicates matters as the club’s hierarchy is “divided” over the experienced centre-half’s future. A Major Pay Cut From Maguire’s perspective, he is intent on remaining a Red Devil next season and is actively prioritising a new deal over interest elsewhere, with clubs in the Premier League and Serie A keeping tabs on the situation. In fact, the defender is even willing to take a 40% pay cut to facilitate negotiations, the i Paper states, as he looks for an extension worth £120,000 a week – an £80,000 hit on his current terms. This reduction would place Maguire more in line with his standing as an elder statesman in the squad, rather than a guaranteed starter. However, INEOS are understood to be reticent about the prospect of Maguire’s presence limiting opportunities for Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven next season. But they are also acutely aware of the value the Englishman offers his younger teammates, even if there may be an impulse for whoever the head coach is to lean on the experienced option. It’s this delicate balance which INEOS will ultimately need to settle upon before sanctioning a new deal for Maguire, even if he is actively willing to take a massive hit to ensure they do. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.