Chelsea weigh up SHOCK move for record-breaking Man Utd star

Chelsea are considering a shock move for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, according to a report.

The 32-year-old is out of contract in the summer and discussions over a new deal have been slow to progress. Man Utd have informed Maguire that he will only be handed fresh terms if he takes a considerable pay cut.

Maguire became the world’s most expensive centre-back when he joined the Red Devils for €87 million in 2019, and his salary reflects that. However, Man Utd are no longer willing to shoulder his hefty wages.

There is a general willingness to continue together from both parties, but Maguire has lost a key ally in Ruben Amorim. The fired head coach was a huge proponent of keeping the former England star around beyond this season.

Despite his advanced age, Maguire would have no shortage of suitors if he were to decide to move on in the summer. Intriguingly, CaughtOffside claims that even Chelsea have registered an interest in the veteran.

Chelsea interested in Maguire

While the Blues are not expected to switch up their transfer strategy of primarily targeting young players, it is asserted that there is an acceptance at Stamford Bridge that a lack of experience has hindered them in recent times.

The report states that Chelsea believe their failure to adequately replace Thiago Silva in 2024 was a mistake, and they are now eyeing Maguire as a potential Silva-type figure for their young squad. The interest in 27-year-old Douglas Luiz is another sign of a more pragmatic approach to recruitment.

The outlet does acknowledge that Maguire to Chelsea is not the most likely outcome, but there is a possibility of a surprise deal. West Ham, Everton, Bournemouth, AS Roma and Napoli also hold an interest in the 32-year-old.

Contrary to reports elsewhere, it is added that a summer departure from Man Utd looks “inevitable.” There is a feeling “on all sides” that Maguire will not be handed an extension.

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