Harry Maguire could force Manchester United to lose target to Arsenal

Manchester United looked set to offload former captain Harry Maguire as they accepted a bid from West Ham, but things have fallen apart. As The Telegraph reported, Harry Maguire wants to “fight for his spot” at Manchester United and therefore has not wanted to leave for West Ham. Too much time had gone on between West Ham’s bid being accepted and waiting for the green light from Maguire, so the Hammers have moved on. This has left Manchester United in a difficult spot in their pursuit of Bayern Munich’s Benjamin Pavard.

The Red Devils, to date, have not agreed to personal terms or submitted a bid. Despite this, there is strong interest in the Frenchman, and it is believed that Pavard wants a move to Manchester United. This transfer was going to be made possible because of the departure of Harry Maguire, but now things have become more complicated.

What will make things worse for Manchester United is that other teams are now starting to circle around the Bayern defender. Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Inter are strong admirers of Pavard and are expected to submit an official proposal soon to Bayern. Romano confirms that United, for the time being after stalled any progress on signing Pavard as they need to figure out what is happening with Harry Maguire.

There is a surprise destination for Pavard, though, Arsenal. Romano believes the Gunners could make a move after the ACL injury to Jurrien Timber was confirmed by the club this week. As The Top Flight has covered, Arsenal is expected to go back into the transfer market to replace Jurrien Timber, who will undoubtedly miss a majority of the Premier League season. With other teams now lurking, United may have to continue talks again with Bayern despite Harry Maguire still being at the club.