Reports have emerged indicating that Manchester United has firmly turned down a £20 million ($25.7 million) proposal from West Ham for the acquisition of Harry Maguire. Information obtained from sources by ESPN confirms this rejection.

At present, Maguire’s status in the Old Trafford pecking order has diminished, and Manchester United has been open to considering offers for the player. However, the Red Devils will only entertain the departure of the 30-year-old defender if a substantial bid is forthcoming. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive betting odds from 1xbet.

Sources suggest that Maguire’s value is assessed closer to the £40 million mark, a sum that must be matched if West Ham intends to secure his services. Manager Erik ten Hag, while opting for Lisandro Martínez and Raphaël Varane as central defenders, is inclined to retain Maguire for the upcoming season. Despite stripping Maguire of his captaincy earlier in the summer, Ten Hag is keen on having at least four dependable central defenders within his squad.

Presently, as Manchester United embarks on its preseason tour in the United States, Maguire remains a part of the team. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future, he continues to be a notable presence. However, sources reveal that West Ham is contemplating its next course of action, treading carefully before extending a bid beyond their initial offer.

In the event that West Ham manages to secure a favorable response to their bid, another consideration looms. Maguire’s wage, which stands to rise this summer after Manchester United’s qualification for the Champions League, adds a further layer of complexity to the negotiations. The defender currently has two years left on his contract, with an additional one-year option.

While it’s not an active pursuit, United may permit Maguire to explore other opportunities if a substantial offer materializes. This principle also extends to Scott McTominay, who is reportedly in West Ham’s sights as well.

Shifting the focus to Manchester United’s transfer dealings, the club has made an offer of approximately £51 million for Atalanta striker Rasmus Höjlund. Although there has been some compromise on Atalanta’s initial demand for a fee exceeding £85 million, there remains a valuation gap that needs to be bridged.

According to insider sources, Manchester United has communicated that they are unwilling to exceed a £60 million offer for the 20-year-old striker. Höjlund, who showcased his abilities with nine goals in Serie A last season, remains a prime target for Erik ten Hag.

The club’s recruitment department is also keeping a watchful eye on other prospects, including Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani and Ajax forward Mohammed Kudus. However, Höjlund remains Ten Hag’s preferred priority, and there’s optimism that a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached prior to the commencement of the Premier League season. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on 1xbet Sports.