The anticipated £30 million ($38 million) transfer of Harry Maguire from Manchester United to West Ham has hit an impasse, with The Guardian reporting that the deal has collapsed. The Hammers have withdrawn from negotiations to sign the accomplished United center-back due to his failure to reach an agreement on exit terms from his current club. Maguire is reportedly seeking a substantial £7 million pay-off from Manchester United as part of his departure conditions, which appears to be a sticking point in the proposed transfer. This compensation demand stems from the fact that Maguire would be required to accept a significant reduction in his wages should he make the move to the London Stadium.
In light of these developments, West Ham’s frustration has mounted over the prolonged delay in securing Maguire’s services. As an alternative strategy, the club has shifted its focus to other potential targets that align more seamlessly with their tactical needs. The Hammers are aiming to bolster their defensive lineup with swifter center-back options, as they perceive Maguire’s pace to be a potential limitation. Consequently, West Ham has earmarked Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah and Odilon Kossounou as two primary contenders for their defensive reinforcement endeavors.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is left with the task of exploring alternative pathways to offload Maguire, given the categorical statement from manager Erik ten Hag that the English international does not feature in his strategic plans. This was evident in United’s Premier League opening fixture against Wolves, where Maguire remained on the bench while other defensive players like Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof were granted playing time ahead of him.