Manchester United are now ready to turn Harry Maguire into their secret weapon in pursuit of Elliot Anderson this summer.
"I'm one of the best defenders in the world", says Maguire
To say it's not been the easiest spell for Maguire at Old Trafford would be a major understatement. There was a stage in which a new contract seemed incredibly unlikely. That he would finally head for the exit door as a big-money flop. Times have since changed, however, and he has been a large part of the Michael Carrick revival.
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Now, after putting pen to paper, he's made his belief clearer than ever - claiming that he's one of the best defenders in the world: "I still believe, even at my age, I'm arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes.
"I don't think that's in question really; that I can be really effective later on in games, whether you're holding on to a lead or trying to chase a game."
On the pitch, it looks like Maguire will have a starting role if Carrick receives the job on a permanent basis at the end of the season. But his impact goes beyond his playing role.
The England international has become an experienced leader over the years after so much adversity and INEOS now want him to use that leadership to convince Anderson to join this summer.
INEOS ask Maguire to tap up Anderson
As reported by The Sun's Samuel Luckhurst, Man United are now readying an offer for Anderson and INEOS have asked Maguire to tap up the Nottingham Forest star at the 2026 World Cup this summer.
Elliot Anderson for Nottingham Forest-1
It mirrors previous deals that the Red Devils have famously completed for the likes of Wayne Rooney and Anderson could prove to be just as important in the coming months.
Valued at as much as £100m at the City Ground, Man United are facing fierce competition from rivals Manchester City for Anderson's signature, but are seemingly ready to unleash their secret weapon.
"Anderson is a key player for us at the moment. He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League - that's why he is with us and starting for us.
"He deserves it because he has been nothing but impressive. He has to keep on going now though. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder, and that's what he keeps showing me." (Thomas Tuchel)
Anderson is certainly highly-rated around English football, with Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel naming him "one of the best midfielders in the Premier League", before also dubbing him "elite".
As transformative signings go, he should be at the very top of Man United's list of priorities this summer, with Maguire potentially playing an unexpected role.