Manchester United recently made football history after the club completed the most expensive transfer for a defender worth £80 million. That is the amount paid by the Red Devils in order to bring Harry Maguire to Old Trafford.
While some analysts have labeled the transfer to be quite expensive for a defender, recent reports have revealed that it was Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer himself who insisted for the deal to push through. Maguire's transfer fee beat the record formerly held by Virgil van Dijk.
Harry Maguire signed a six-year contract for Manchester United. His contract has an option for a one-year extension once it expires. During the early negotiations with Leicester, Maguire's former club, Manchester United was about to drop the deal as it did not agree to Maguire's massive valuation. Nevertheless, after continued insistence from Solskjaer, the Red Devils eventually agreed.
According to reports, Solskjaer insisted for the transfer to be completed because he believed that Maguire would have a significant impact once on the pitch. Chief among these skills is his leadership. It has been noted since the opening of the transfer window that Solskjaer is looking for a center back that has the intensive experience, both in domestic and international leagues. Maguire has played for four premier league clubs. He also plays regularly for the England national team since his debut in 2017.
A number of reports also noted that Solskjaer is impressed by Maguire's passing ability. There is also a significant amount of rumor claiming that the Manchester United manager is seriously considering Maguire for the captaincy in the future.
Solskjaer believes that Maguire will be a good fit for his club. Hence, his determination to acquire the 26-year-old defender. Last season, Manchester United finished in sixth place. Part of the problem cited by some football analysts is the club's wobbly defense.
Aside from Maguire, Manchester United also completed the transfer of two more players, winger Daniel James from Swansea City and Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace.
When asked about his prospects with his new club, Maguire said, "When Manchester United come knocking on your door, it is an incredible opportunity. From my conversations with the manager, I am excited about the vision and plans he has for the team. It's clear to see that Ole is building a team to win trophies. I am now looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting the season started."
