Manchester United centre back in talks over shock new contract

Toby Coxon

Manchester United centre back in talks over shock new contract image

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Harry Maguire is in talks with Manchester United over a new contract, in a development that confirms the defender’s quiet but significant career revival at Old Trafford.

The news comes just months after the 32-year-old was widely tipped to leave the club, but his contributions and leadership have impressed the new football hierarchy, leading to advanced discussions about extending his stay beyond his current deal which expires in June 2026.

The negotiations are a major turnaround for the experienced centre-back, who was stripped of the club captaincy by former manager Erik ten Hag.

The decision to offer Maguire a new deal is a strong sign that manager Ruben Amorim is backing the defender's continued role in his squad.

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Ruben Amorim's backing and the Saudi threat

 According to reports, manager Ruben Amorim is actively "pushing behind the scenes" for Maguire's renewal.

Amorim’s faith in the defender has been clear since he took over, with the Portuguese coach triggering a one-year extension in January and reinstating Maguire into the club's leadership group this summer.

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The urgency of the talks is also driven by interest from the Saudi Pro League.

With Maguire set to become a free agent in June 2026, foreign clubs like Al-Nassr would be free to open negotiations with him in January.

The new deal is a smart financial move for the club, who are aiming to retain an experienced, respected squad player on manageable wages.

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Harry Maguire's role in the new era

The contract talks underscore Maguire’s perceived importance as an experienced and committed squad player, even if he is no longer a guaranteed starter.

The defender has played seven times in all competitions this term, often featuring at the heart of Amorim's back three formation.

Maguire’s current contract, which already took a 25 per cent reduction after the club failed to qualify for the Champions League last season, provides the team with reliable cover.

The new deal would reward Maguire’s professionalism and resilience throughout a challenging period in his career, making him a consistent presence in the dressing room as Sir Jim Ratcliffe attempts to implement a cultural reset at the club.

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Toby Coxon

Toby joined The Sporting News in 2025 after completing a degree in Multimedia Sports Journalism. He has previous experience writing for online and print publications including VAVEL, Breaking Media and The Non-League Paper. He also has experience working within football clubs in previous roles at Curzon Ashton FC and Bradford City AFC.