Manchester United will maintain Harry Maguire, but if they can unload Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, or Axel Tuanzebe this summer, they will aim to acquire a new center-back.
Maguire’s future at Old Trafford has been thrown into question following a difficult season in which his form and leadership were questioned by several of his United teammates.
Even if the leadership appears to be up in the air, new manager Erik ten Hag intends to maintain him as one of his central defenders with Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof.
Following United interim manager Ralf Rangnick’s suggestion that the players vote on who wears the armband, Ten Hag was noncommittal when he was introduced last month.
Maguire lost his starting spot under Rangnick, and if United can sign another player in his position this summer, he will face even more competition next season.
Jurrien Timber, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax, would be their preferred choice, but United feels he will stay with the Dutch champions. Lisandro Martinez of Ajax and Pau Torres of Villarreal are also possibilities.
