There was no secret around the transfer dealings regarding Harry Maguire and it seemed that both parties were willing to do a deal to see the England international moved on from Manchester United but a deal did not materialise before the window slammed shut.
It has now been revealed by West Ham first-team coach Kevin Nolan that Maguire was “very close” but the deal fell short at the final hurdle.
The summer dealings for Manchester United centre back
When Harry Maguire arrived at Manchester United, the deal was inflated beyond belief due to his international status, Premier League performances and the fact Manchester United were desperate for a defender, Maguire became a vital player for United.
In his first two years at the club there was no disputing that Maguire was on top of his game for the Red Devils and was missed beyond belief in their Europa League final defeat.
However, it has been a torrid two years with mistakes far too common, being dropped from Erik ten Hag’s first team plans and then subsequently being dropped as first team captain.
West Ham offered an escape route and at £30 million the deal seemed sensible enough for United not to take a huge loss on their centre back. Yet personal terms could not be agreed with United unwilling to pay a reported £15 million payoff to the England international.
Would West Ham have been the best location for Maguire?
Having heard Nolan speaking on TalkSport he does talk with passion and disappointment that the deal for Maguire fell short. It would have been a fresh start for Maguire who is in desperate need of a change of scenery as it is clearly affecting his confidence on the pitch; as was evident when he poked home into his own net against Scotland midweek whilst on international duty.
With the success of West Ham’s journey in the Europa Conference League culminating in victory against Fiorentina it meant they will now play in the Europa League; a competition Maguire is familiar with.
The chance to play in Europe, returning to become a first choice centre back and building up confidence would have certainly been the best move for Maguire. It will be interesting to see if West Ham return in January.