Harry Maguire makes transfer decision with Manchester United chasing 2 targets

It's believed Harry Maguire is not planning on going anywhere this summer and is ready to battle for his spot at Manchester United .

The 31-year-old England international , who missed Euro 2024 due to a muscle injury, has returned to Old Trafford for pre-season training in peak condition and prepared to play. With just one year left on his contract, it's almost certain that Maguire will be in the starting eleven against Norwegian side Rosenborg in United's first friendly match on Monday.

The former Leicester player used the off-season to continue his recovery from the injury that sidelined him during the final stages of last season, including United's FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City .

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In fact, Maguire even had a United physio join him on his holiday in Portugal to monitor his progress and conduct some specific training sessions. This shows the defender's determination to fight his way back into Erik ten Tag's plans for the 2024-25 season.

This situation would have been unimaginable a year ago when Maguire, after being stripped of the captaincy, seemed destined to depart. However, the Three Lions star seems to be succeeding in his personal mission to convince Ten Hag that he still has a lot to offer the squad, according to the Daily Star .

The Dutch manager was greatly impressed by Maguire's form and attitude last year, following his recall to the first team amidst a severe injury crisis in defence. The Reds' boss is content to retain him, instead of allowing him to depart for a bargain before the transfer deadline.

Nonetheless, this decision will not halt United's quest for a new top-tier defender. Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich and Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton continue to be prime targets.

United has made two bids for Branthwaite, 23, so far and on Saturday, The Athletic reported that Aston Villa are close to signing Everton midfielder Amadou Onana. It has been reported that a move has almost been agreed between the two clubs for Onana to complete a switch to Villa Park. It has been claimed that once the deal for Onana has been completed, Everton will no longer be under any pressure to sell Branthwaite this summer.

Liverpool.com says: Maguire has received a lot of criticism in recent years, but he's an accomplished defender who would've played at Euro 2024 as a starter for England if it wasn't for that muscle injury he suffered at the back end of last season. United would be silly to let him leave Old Trafford this summer after his stellar performances last term.