From Wigan Athletic to world record fee!

Former Wigan Athletic defender Harry Maguire has become the most expensive defender in history after joining Manchester United from Leicester for £80million.
Harry Maguire during his Latics daysHarry Maguire during his Latics days
Harry Maguire during his Latics days

The 26-year-old - who spent the second half of the 2014-15 campaign on loan at the DW from Hull City - has signed a six-year contract at Old Trafford with the option of a further year after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Maguire was strongly linked with both Manchester clubs over the summer but Leicester held out for their valuation and the fee surpasses the £75million Liverpool paid Southampton for Virgil Van Dijk in January 2018.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Maguire told his new club's official website: "I am delighted to have signed for this great club. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Leicester and would like to thank everyone at the club, and the fans, for their fantastic support over the past two seasons. However, when Manchester United come knocking on your door, it is an incredible opportunity.

"From my conversations with the manager, I am excited about the vision and plans he has for the team. It's clear to see that Ole is building a team to win trophies. I am now looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting the season started."

United had made strengthening the centre of their defence a priority at the start of the summer, with the need becoming more acute when Eric Bailly suffered a knee injury during their pre-season tour of China which is expected to keep him out for at least four months.

The deal represents a tidy profit for Leicester, who signed Maguire for an initial £12million - potentially rising to £17million with add-ons - from Hull in the summer of 2017.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Foxes were in a strong negotiating position after the Sheffield-born player signed a new five-year deal in September.

Maguire could make his debut in Sunday's Premier League opener against Chelsea at Old Trafford.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "Harry is one of the best centre-backs in the game today and I am delighted we have secured his signature.

"He is a great reader of the game and has a strong presence on the pitch, with the ability to remain calm under pressure - coupled with his composure on the ball and a huge presence in both boxes - I can see he will fit well into this group both on and off the pitch."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Maguire becomes United's third signing of the summer, having last month completed deals for Swansea flyer Daniel James and Crystal Palace right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Solskjaer has confirmed United are still in the market for more signings before Thursday's Premier League transfer deadline and the scrutiny is on after slumping home sixth last season.