This would be quite the turn of events
Chelsea are reportedly eyeing up a move for Manchester United captain Harry Maguire and have enquired about the centre-back’s availability.
Just like the rest of the United squad, Maguire has endured a difficult start to the Premier League season and was part of the defence that conceded four first-half goals against Brentford last week.
This is off the back of a 2021/22 season in which the 29-year-old struggled massively for form.
But Chelsea are said to be interested in the England international and have made a shock approach for him as they try and strengthen their options in defence, the Daily Mail reports.
Whilst the London club still see Leicester centre-back Wesley Fofana as their priority, they are now considering a swap deal with United which would see Christian Pulisic go the other way to Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag’s side are interested in the US international but Chelsea are unwilling to sell to a team that they believe to be a direct rival this season.
So they’ve raised the possibility of Maguire being part of any deal involving Pulisic.
There is little doubt that Fofana remains Chelsea’s top priority though, with the French defender trying to force a move to London from the East Midlands.
The 21-year-old is set to be left of Brendan Rodgers’ squad for their match at home to Southampton on Saturday afternoon.
But Leicester are holding out for a higher offer for the player. If Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has demonstrated one thing this summer, it’s that he’s not afraid to splash the cash.
Wesley Fofana has no doubts since one month: he wants Chelsea, it’s his dream move. Full agreement on personal terms has been reached days ago, now waiting for new bid 🚨🔵 #CFC
Fofana asked Rodgers to be left out of Southampton game, it’s confirmed – as @RobTannerLCFC reported. pic.twitter.com/9QZfatWUkV
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 19, 2022
Maguire’s place in the United squad is rumoured to be under threat after his side’s dreadful start to the season.
Raphael Varane is pushing for a return to the team, with Maguire and Lisandro Martinez having started the first two games as the centre back pair.
Ten Hag is plotting changes ahead of his side Monday night clash with Liverpool, which could involve Martinez moving into a defensive midfield role.
All of this comes with the backdrop of the Red Devils having signed Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro for £70m, which was confirmed by Carlo Ancelotti on Thursday.
Related links:
- Erik ten Hag ‘now fully understands’ why he was warned about Man United job
- Gary Neville tells Glazers it would be ‘unacceptable’ to part sell Man United
- Chelsea to investigate alleged racist abuse aimed at Heung-min Son
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