West Ham United transfer news as Manchester United loan mooted for Harry Maguire

West Ham have expressed an interest in Harry Maguire this summer, with a potential loan deal suggested as Manchester United will look to move players on, according to the Independent.

The Hammers have been linked to Maguire throughout this transfer window, in a move that has had many twists and turns, with recent reports suggesting the Manchester United captain’s wage may put West Ham off of a move [The Guardian, 6 July].

The report in the Independent does suggest however, any loan deal for Maguire looks much more unlikely than a possible Hammers move for Scott McTominay, as United look to shift a couple of players this summer with those two high on the list.

West Ham shouldn’t be held to ransom

If West Ham want Harry Maguire as much as reports are making it seem, they must make sure any deal for him suits the buying club rather than the sellers, and they should not be held to ransom over a transfer fee. They must be prepared to walk away.

Manchester United paid £80million for Maguire four years ago, and are now looking to make back some of that fee following the defender’s turbulent time in Manchester which has seen his reputation fall through the floor.

He would definitely do a job for West Ham, where the team would sit a bit deeper and allow a tighter defensive unit than the high-pressing fluid system employed at Manchester United. The West Ham system would suit the defender who has shown his quality on the international stage with England.

The admiration he holds from his international manager says a lot about his real level. While his reputation has plummeted, Gareth Southgate continues to hold him in high regard. Despite his struggles, his performances at international level suggest a change of scenery could make all the difference.