Manchester United are reportedly set to plot summer pursuit of English international Harry Maguire as an alternative to Kalidou Koulibaly.
According to a report by ESPN, Manchester United are identifying alternatives to top target Kalidou Koulibaly in their bid to strengthen their defence. With that in mind, the Premier League heavyweights have reignited their interest in Leicester City defender Harry Maguire, who was also a summer target for them.
Maguire has come a long way since his breakthrough campaign in the Premier League with Hull City. Since then, the English international has sealed a move to Leicester City, where he is now a mainstay at the back, and is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs on show in the Premier League.
The player also impressed on England duty during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, playing a key role in their run to the semi-finals. His exploits have certainly caught the eye at some of the biggest clubs in the country, with Manchester United being one of his biggest admirers, and long-term suitors.
In fact, Manchester United were even keen on securing the services of the English international in last summer’s transfer window before he decided to stay put and renew terms with Leicester. But, with defence continuing to remain a major concern under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the Red Devils are eager to bolster their backline.
To that end, Kalidou Koulibaly has been identified as a priority, although a January move looks unlikely. Manchester United are prepared to wait till the summer to make a move for their top target, but are also considering alternatives, with Maguire featuring on their shortlist of alternate options.
Having refused to rule out making a signing this month, a bid for Maguire could be in the offing, although the player has reaffirmed his commitment to Leicester time and again. However, what does keep Manchester United in the hunt in pursuit of the English international is his recent comment over his future, with the player choosing to remain coy over the prospect of leaving Leicester next summer.
Maguire though, simply remains an alternative for now, with Koulibaly being the priority. It now remains to be seen how Manchester United’s pursuit of Kalidou Koulibaly pans out, the failure of which could see them launch the offensive for the Leicester City superstar once again.
