Manchester United sign Harry Maguire for £80 million

Manchester United have signed England centre-back Harry Maguire from Premier League rivals Leicester City £80 million, which is a world record fee for a centre-back.

The 26-year-old has agreed a six-year contract at Old Trafford which will keep him contracted to the Manchester club until 2025.

The centre-back eclipses the fee paid for Virgil Van Dijk in January 2018 which was £75 million for the Dutch defender.

“When Manchester United come knocking on your door, it is an incredible opportunity,” said Maguire.

Maguire is the second most expensive signing in English top-flight history after new team-mate Paul Pogba who was bought by United for £89 million ,and becomes the second most expensive British player after Wales winger Gareth Bale, who joined Real Madrid from Tottenham for £85m in 2013.

The English international is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s third summer signing after Daniel James was bought for £15 million from Swansea, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace for £50 million.

Maguire briefly spoke about his interactions with new boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

“From my conversations with the manager, I am excited about the vision and plans he has for the team.

“It’s clear to see that Ole is building a team to win trophies. I am now looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting the season started.”

Solskjaer also spoke highly of the defender.

He said:

“Harry is one of the best centre-backs in the game today.

“He is a great reader of the game and has a strong presence on the pitch, with the ability to remain calm under pressure.

“He will fit well into this group both on and off the pitch.”