Harry Maguire has expressed his desire to remain at Manchester United, provided he receives assurances regarding his playing time. Veteran defender Maguire, 33, whose contract expires in the summer, has engaged in discussions about extending his stay at Old Trafford.
However, Maguire has conceded that he will only sign a new contract if he is confident of maintaining his status as a first-choice player throughout the entirety of that deal. United are eager to secure Maguire on a one-year contract with the option for an additional 12 months, and they are nearing an agreement on new terms for Kobbie Mainoo too.
Yet Maguire said: "I think we'll reach an agreement where it's best for the club and myself. What that agreement is, I'm sure you'll find out over the next few weeks.
"But yeah, I think it'll get sorted sooner rather than later, whether I stay or leave. But I think it will – it should – get sorted pretty soon.
"I love this club. But it's got to be right for myself, it's got to be right for the club as well. I don't want to be staying on a sentimental value.
"I want to be staying because I want to be there and the club want me to drive the club forward still, and they feel like I've got a big part to play in it. And if that's the case, then I'm sure we'll sit down and reach something."
When questioned about what would persuade him to stay, Maguire responded: "Yeah, playing games and helping the team on and off the pitch. I don't want to be not feeling important.
"I want to be important to the club. So we need to sit down and speak – and I've got a long time off now with the red card."
Maguire further added: "A bad end to a good day, really. I'm pleased that we held on for the point. That was an important point in the end. It was a harsh red card, but that's the way football is really."