‘United wanted to sign me’ – Talented defender

Harry Maguire has confirmed that Manchester United were interested in signing him in the summer. Reports suggested that the Englishman was Mourinho’s #1 pick but nothing had materialised.

The Leicester City star had a very good World Cup and was linked with the Red Devils ever since. He was one of the best players in Russia for England, where they managed to reach the semi-finals.

Manchester United were keen on signing a centre-back and the position was said to be the main priority for Mourinho as well. However, they did not manage to get Maguire, nor did they get any other central defender.

Confirming the interest from United, Maguire said,  “There was obviously a little bit of interest.”

However, the Englishman revealed that there was no option for him to decide his future. Leicester City owners made it clear to him that they were not willing to sell him at any cost and the defender obliged.

“The owners spoke with me and reiterated I wasn’t for sale at any price,” said Maguire. Continuing to talk about the owner’s decision, he said, “I respected their decision because they gave me the chance to come to Leicester and play for such a great club. I just want to get my head down and get on playing the season for Leicester.”

Mourinho was reportedly furious with the United board for not getting him his main targets. Apart from Maguire, the manager had Toby Alderweireld, Diego Godin, Jerome Boateng and Yerry Mina on his list.

While no move was reportedly made for Alderweireld, United did make an effort to sign the other 3 defenders. They met Godin’s €25 million release clause but the Uruguayan star rejected the move.

Boateng confirmed that he spoke with Mourinho and declined the move while reports suggest that United backed out of the deal for Mina as Barcelona wanted to send Andre Gomes as a part of the deal.