Manchester United have lost faith in Harry Maguire, with ‘the new Van Dijk’ set for Old Trafford
Harry Maguire, the captain of Manchester United, may have to fight for his job at Old Trafford, as the club’s hierarchy is no longer convinced of his abilities.
According to the Sun, United are interested in signing Barcelona player Ronald Araujo – dubbed “the next van Dijk” – to replace England star Virgil van Dijk, who might be sold this summer.
Raphael Varane joined for about £40 million in the summer, and despite missing much of the season due to injury, he has impressed when he has played. The Frenchman was also absent throughout the humiliating defeats to Liverpool, Manchester City, and Watford that cost Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his job.
Araujo has made an impression at Barcelona with his technical abilities and physicality. Xavi seemed to prefer the Uruguayan to former Barcelona defender Eric Garcia. At 22, the centre back is as much a player for the future as he is for the present, and he has the potential to be a long-term fixture at Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Maguire could be the latest in a long line of expensive flops for the Red Devils. When he signed from Leicester City, the England star became the most expensive defender in history. He has been a rock in the back for both club and country since his arrival, but has been criticised for his lack of mobility.
United may have to accept a loss on the Maguire trade, which cost £75 million when he was signed. Any team outside of the United Kingdom is unlikely to pay more than £50 million for the player.
On Transfermarkt, Maguire is valued at £43 million.
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