Harry Maguire and Manchester United have branded speculation linking the defender with a move to Aston Villa as ‘laughable’.
It was reported over the weekend that Maguire was set for a move to Aston Villa, after the out-of-favour Manchester United centre-back was spotted in Birmingham.
One talkSport journalist even went as far as stating the England international was ‘on the verge’ of a switch to Villa Park, with bookmakers hastily slashing the odds on Maguire making the move down the M6.
Those claims have since been deleted in what was one of the fastest u-turns since Liz Truss’ corporation tax proposals, after the real reason for Maguire’s trip to the Midlands was revealed.
A round of golf at The Belfry was all that was required for the speculation to spark, with Maguire not in discussions with Unai Emery over a transfer to Villa.
The Manchester Evening News are reporting that sources close to Maguire and Manchester United have laughed off the rumours which quickly caught fire, with Erik ten Hag keen to keep the defender among his options across the second half of the season.
Reports of Harry Maguire deal ‘done’ with Aston Villa are now denied by all parties involved. No negotiations or talks ongoing. 🚨🔴 #MUFC
Maguire is expected to stay at Man United, the position is very clear. pic.twitter.com/R0eaRL3Lp3
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 8, 2023
Fabrizio Romano is also reporting that there are ‘no negotiations’ between the clubs for the 29-year-old.
Maguire has started just four games this season, but is expected to feature as United face Charlton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday evening.
He has struggled for opportunities this season despite the late return of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez from World Cup duties, with Luke Shaw having featured in an unfamiliar centre-back role ahead of his England teammate in recent games.
Erik ten Hag suggested that Shaw’s left-footedness, and – perhaps more crucially – pace, were behind the reason to select the full-back ahead of the regular club captain.
Maybe a move might be the best option for Maguire after all…
