placeholder image
Getty Images
Man United are looking to bolster their defence moving forward, with a big name expected to leave at the end of the season.
Following the transfer window’s closure, Amorim will be looking ahead to January already to work out which areas he wants to improve and which players he wants to replace.
Man United, Newcastle and Villa keen on Dani Vivian
Heading into the January window, Maguire’s potential departure will be a talking point at Old Trafford, and it seems that a target has emerged to replace the England international.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Athletic Bilbao centre-back Dani Vivian is attracting heavy Premier League interest, including from Manchester United. The report says that the 26-year-old has a £35m release clause in his contract, and that United are one of the main suitors alongside Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
He is a regular starter for Bilbao and has also become a regular for the Spanish national team. Last season, Vivian made 46 appearances for the La Liga club, scoring four goals, due to his heading ability and size of over six feet.
Vivian is a player that Bilbao values highly, as their Athletic Director Mikel Gonzalez highlighted when he signed a new eight-year contract last year. He said in a club statement: “He is a player in continuous evolution, with a winning mentality and his ambition on a daily basis has made him one of the best centre-backs at the moment.
"His level of concentration, speed and ability to defend forward fit perfectly with the profile of centre-back we are looking for in our demanding style of play."
Could Maguire leave in January?
Last week, reports emerged suggesting that two Saudi Pro League clubs have approached Maguire, with their transfer window not due to close until September 23. The defender isn’t expected to leave before that deadline closes, as United still value him as a reliable defender; however, a move in January could be more likely.
The Red Devils would likely let him go if they were to sign a replacement, and Vivian could be one such player. If they were to sell Maguire, it would grant United a return on him, rather than letting him leave as a free agent in the summer, for no financial return.
Maguire isn’t expected to sign a new contract at United even though his current deal is coming to a close, so it does seem like he won’t be at Old Trafford next season, whether that be a departure in January or in the summer.
Continue Reading