Everton could land Harry Maguire transfer as journalist shares new verdict
Everton could land a deal for Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire before the end of the transfer window after journalist Mark Ogden suggested he will leave, via the ESPN UK Youtube channel.
Ogden, who works as a senior journalist for ESPN, shared his view on 1 August that Maguire will leave Manchester United this summer as he will not receive enough playing time in the build-up to the European Championships at the end of the season.
The journalist shared his view in the wake of interest from Everton [TEAMtalk, 1 August] and an official £20million bid made by West Ham, which was rejected by Manchester United, who have set a £40million+ price tag on the defender. [Manchester Evening News, 29 July].
Speaking via the ESPN UK Youtube channel, Ogden stated: “I do think he’ll leave. I think at some point [Manchester] United will find a buyer because he’s not gonna play. He’s got the Euros at the end of the season, and it’s obviously important for Maguire to play for England.”
Everton could make their move for Maguire as reported, if they can shift some players off of the wage bill to make room for the former United captain, and the offer of consistent football in a side that better suits his talents and style would be a huge benefit to his England plans.
Ogden’s view that the £20million bid from West Ham should have been enough for United suggests that a deal may be there to be done – despite contradictory reports that the Red Devils will hold out for their £40million valuation.
As with every season in the transfer window, things can change quickly, particularly in the final weeks after the Premier League kicks off when players, in particular Maguire, may realise their best option is to leave the club, and the club realise they may have to sell.
The longer this transfer saga drags on, the more likely it seems to happen. All parties involved would benefit from the move, as would Gareth Southgate and England, with a match-fit Harry Maguire always a boost to the international side.
Everton will be watching developments very closely.
In other Everton news, the club are still awaiting a bid for one first-team player.