West Ham United’s ambitious move for centre-half Harry Maguire has hit a stumbling block due to complications over personal terms.
In light of this setback, the Hammers are swiftly shifting their focus towards Bayer Leverkusen’s promising defender Odilon Kossounou, with a potential swoop worth £30 million in the works.
Manchester United had recently accepted a £30 million bid for Maguire, but the stumbling block lies in the need to jointly fund his wages.
As negotiations reach an impasse, West Ham’s sporting director Tim Steidten has turned his attention to Kossounou, who he is familiar with from his time at the German club.
In an intriguing twist, Leverkusen might even consider a loan deal with a subsequent guaranteed purchase option, providing an alternative route for West Ham to secure Kossounou’s services.
While Maguire remains a contender to feature in Manchester United’s Premier League opener against Wolves on Monday night, his future hangs in the balance.
Last season, the 30-year-old endured a challenging start, finding himself dropped early on by manager Erik ten Hag and subsequently featuring in just eight Premier League matches.
During the summer, it was revealed that Maguire had been relieved of the captaincy at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes assuming the role.
United have reached an agreement to allow Maguire to join West Ham, but the ultimate decision now rests with the experienced centre-back himself.
When questioned about Maguire’s availability for the upcoming match, Ten Hag responded affirmatively, stating, “Of course.”
Although Maguire has slipped down the pecking order at United, behind the likes of Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, and occasionally even Luke Shaw, he still has the option to fight for his place.
Looking ahead to Euro 2024 next summer, however, Maguire might consider regular first-team football as a crucial factor in retaining his spot in the England national team.
With two years remaining on his £190,000-a-week contract at United, the defender faces a significant decision that could shape the trajectory of his career.