Harry Maguire has impressed Ruben Amorim so much that he is even willing to give up a £70million deal.
Maguire, 31, has endured a rollercoaster at Manchester United since becoming the world's most expensive defender. The Red Devils spent £80 million on his signature to bring him from Leicester in 2019.
He impressed in spells but was also close to a move to West Ham, while Maguire also had the club captaincy stripped from him by Erik ten Hag. The England star looked set to leave the club this summer, but Ruben Amorim confirmed chiefs had activated an option to extend his stay for another year.
And that decision appears to have stopped United from throwing money into the market again. The Red Devils were heavily linked with a move for Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite last summer, with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly leading their interest.
Ultimately, they were unwilling to pay the £70 million asking price to the Toffees. But their need for a new centre-back remained, especially with Maguire, as well as Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof, set to be out of contract this summer.
But Maguire's extended deal has eased the need for a ready-made centre-back in the summer. United seems to be working with Maguire, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez next season.
According to the Mail, the Red Devils' chiefs will now focus on a younger defender with growth potential to expand their options rather than an expensive addition. Amorim has remained a fan of Maguire since arriving in Manchester.
The defender made nine appearances under the Portuguese coach. He recently explained how he convinced him to stay at the club.
“Yes, him [Amorim] is really demanding.” said Maguire. “Ruben said to me that when it happened to him that I had an option (to extend my contract), that was not a good idea.
“It has given me the confidence and belief that they want me at the club and to be part of this project. I'm happy to be here. I want this club to fight for titles again and not fight where we are now. We still have a long way to go.”
Meanwhile, Amorim has publicly praised Maguire, especially after his performance in the draw against Liverpool despite missing a late chance. The United boss said: “For me, missing chances or playing poorly with the ball is not the big problem. For me the big problem is that Harry gave everything on the field. That is the most important thing.”
Maguire will be hoping to retain a place in the starting line-up this week. United take on Southampton on Thursday ahead of the weekend clash with Brighton.
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