BREAKING NEWS: “The financial loss doesn’t concern me; he has to go. He’s not part of the club’s plans.” Erik ten Hag has decided that a Manchester United player must leave, even though it will likely lead to a considerable financial setback for the club.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag appears to have made a firm decision regarding Harry Maguire’s future at the club, indicating that the defender is no longer part of his plans.

Reports suggest that Maguire could leave United in the upcoming January transfer window for a significantly reduced fee. This represents a sharp decline for the England international, who was once the world’s most expensive defender after his £80 million move from Leicester City to Old Trafford in 2019.

Maguire’s time at Manchester United has been tumultuous, as the center-back struggled to meet the expectations tied to his record transfer fee. Initially seen as a key figure in United’s defense, particularly under previous managers, Maguire’s form has declined in recent seasons.

Since Ten Hag’s arrival, Maguire has found it difficult to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup, with the manager opting for other defensive options. According to reports, United may be willing to sell Maguire for as little as £10 million in January, a significant drop from his original transfer fee.

This potential move aligns with the broader transformation of United’s defense under Ten Hag. The club has made considerable investments in players like Lisandro Martinez and pursued targets such as Matthijs de Ligt.

Young talent, including Leny Yoro, has also emerged, pushing Maguire further down the pecking order. With these new signings solidifying the backline, Maguire has struggled to regain a consistent place in the squad.

While West Ham previously showed interest in signing Maguire, the current situation remains uncertain, with no clubs specifically linked to him at present. This could complicate United’s efforts to offload the defender, particularly given his dip in form and the challenges in finding a buyer willing to meet even the reduced asking price.

Despite these difficulties, Maguire still possesses qualities that could attract mid-tier Premier League teams or clubs needing defensive reinforcements. His leadership, experience at both club and international levels, and physical presence could be valuable assets. However, finding a buyer may prove challenging, and Maguire’s next destination remains uncertain as the January window approaches.

For Manchester United, selling Maguire at a reduced fee may represent a financial loss but could be a strategic move to free up space and resources for further investment in other areas.