Man Utd’s plans for long-term Maguire replacement take hit

Suraj Radia

• 15 Dec 2022 18:46 GMT
• 2 min read

Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their bid for a long-term successor to Harry Maguire after one of their top young targets signed a new contract with his club.

Rangers announced defender Leon King signed a ‘long-term extension’ to his deal with the club, having been linked with moves to United and Newcastle in recent times.

The 18-year-old has already made 26 appearances for Rangers, 18 of which have come this season, and he is thought to be one of Scotland’s brightest defensive prospects.

TROUBLE: World Cup star ‘disturbed’ by Man Utd transfer link

King’s previous contract was set to expire in 2024, leading to Premier League sides scouting the youngster in the hopes of securing a bargain buy but he has now committed his long-term future to the club, with the deal thought to be until 2026.

“I’m extremely happy to sign a long-term extension, it’s amazing for me and my family. It’s something I have always wanted to do, play for this club, and I’m glad it is continuing,” King said.

“I have been a fan of the club ever since I was born, my whole family are Rangers fans as well and I love this club, so it was a no-brainer,” King said.

What are Man Utd’s options at centre-back?

Erik ten Hag is believed to be keen on signing a centre-back, having been unconvinced by his options at United thusfar, including club captain Maguire.

Maguire has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford this season after a dismal run of form for United but Ten Hag could be encouraged by the England international’s performances at the World Cup.

POTENTIAL: Harry Maguire's Man Utd career is not over after World Cup

England kept three clean sheets in five games in Qatar, with Maguire a stand-out performer at the back, meaning he will return to Manchester in confident standing.

With first-choice centre-back pairing Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez both set to feature in the World Cup final this Sunday, Maguire could feature for United until the duo return to the club after the tournament.

United will continue to run the rule over potential signings in the meantime but, with King now ruled out, the club will have to look towards other young talent to replace Maguire in the long-term.