Harry Maguire set to leave Man United at the end of the season | OneFootball

The writing is on the wall for Harry Maguire. With his contract expiring in June 2026 and injury issues mounting, most recently a 53-day layoff for a thigh problem, Manchester United are actively preparing for life without their former captain.

The club’s strategy has shifted decisively toward youth, with scouts identifying a clutch of high-potential replacements to partner Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martínez for the next decade.

Maguire’s Manchester United contract expires at the end of the season and there is currently no discussion or agreement in place over a new deal.

It is understood Maguire and his family are settled in the north west and the defender would like to remain at Old Trafford. He is open to a significant wage reduction to stay for another year or two, with his current £190,000-a-week salary viewed internally as too high for his role and age.

Despite that willingness, United have yet to move forward with an extension due to a number of reasons including his age, injury concerns and his salary, even if reduced.

Man United leaning towards a departure for Harry Maguire

As things stand, it is likely Harry Maguire leaves the club once his contract ends.

Man United are planning to operate with a back four next season, a system that places greater emphasis on mobility and availability. Maguire’s recent injury record is a concern, with an increasing number of muscle and soft tissue issues over the past few seasons.

The club are also well stocked at centre back, with Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven already in the squad. Given that depth, Man United are assessing whether Harry Maguire is required moving forward.

Harry Maguire turns 33 in March and Man United are balancing sentiment against practicality. While his leadership and experience are valued, his age, salary and growing injury record have all played a role in the club’s hesitation. With European football no certainty, and Maguire‘s current wages making him one of the club’s biggest earners it is looking more and more likely that he moves on this summer.

Manchester United have valid reasons for stalling on a new contract for Harry Maguire. The data from the past three seasons reveals a worrying drop in his availability. He has transitioned from an ever-present starter to a squad member frequently dealing with soft-tissue injuries.

The 2024/25 campaign acted as a major warning sign when he missed time on three occasions with calf issues. The 2025/26 season has only reinforced those concerns following a 53-day layoff for a thigh problem.

That marks his longest absence since 2023. Recurring hamstring, groin, and thigh strains suggest his body can no longer handle the physical load of the highest level. His periods of availability are shrinking and the breakdowns are happening with greater regularity.

Manchester United have dispatched scouts to watch Rennes’ defensive prospect Jérémy Jacquet, with officials present during Rennes’ recent fixtures. Additionally, the Daily Mail indicates that Nottingham Forest’s Murillo is viewed as a primary target to replace Maguire, valued at approximately £48m. The club is also monitoring RB Leipzig’s El Chadaille Bitshiabu and Sassuolo’s Tarik Muharemović, signalling a clear intent to recruit a left-footed or left-sided specialist.

Interest elsewhere and next steps

Maguire has interest from clubs in Italy, with Inter, Napoli, AC Milan, Roma and Fiorentina as interested suitors. Harry Maguire would also would attract a lot of attention from Premier League sides, although English clubs cannot open talks until the summer.

With a young family settled in England, his next move is expected to factor in lifestyle as well as football. But reports from Italy do say that he would be happy to move to Italy, perhaps to warmer weather and a nicer climate, and away from the English media.