LONDON, Sporting Alert — Manchester United target Harry Maguire didn’t take part in Leicester City training on Monday, after he phoned in sick, Sky Sports is reporting.
The Red Devils have identified Maguire as their premier target to help bring some stability in the backline and have reportedly been in constant discussion to get a deal over the line.
In fact, Sky Sports News reported a few weeks ago that the England centre-back has told Leicester he wants to leave before the window closes on August 8.
The 26-year-old earned interest from both Manchester clubs, but the attention from City have cooled down because the English Premier League champions were not willing to meet his £80 million valuation.
This means Manchester United were left in the clear to snap up one of the most improved center-back in the Premier League and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, like Maguire, is determined to get a deal done as soon as possible.
It is also believed that Man United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward opted to skip the club’s preseason tour of Australia and the Far East to work on the ongoing negotiations and have even proposed two bids that were rejected, Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers confirmed.
The Foxes are holding out for between £80m and £90m reports claimed.
With Eric Bailly out injured and Phil Jones struggled throughout the seasons to stay healthy, Solksjaer knows he must get another center-back of quality in before the season starts.
Meanwhile, Leicester captain Wes Morgan praised the qualities of his centre-back partner as interest continues to grow.
“Back in the day it was not about centre-backs getting the ball and playing from the back. Nowadays it is clear to see that centre-backs have the most touches on the ball,” Morgan said.
“Harry has taken that to another dimension. He can get it in tight positions and take the ball through players. He can pass, but first and foremost he is a good defender.
“I am just glad he is playing for Leicester,” the Jamaican international added.
