Harry Maguire was able to join the Saudi Arabian Professional League club when Manchester United’s deal expired at the end of the season. The veteran defender is just entering the final year of his contract at Old Trafford and has yet to offer new terms. His original contract was exhausted earlier this year, but United took the option to extend it even further by season.
Maguire had not started the Premier League match for the campaign, and only played 13 minutes in total with United’s opening three equipment. He was an unused replacement as the Red Devils came from behind to beat Burnley before an international break. Maguire was given an unusual start to the town of Grimsby last week with a Carabao Cup defeat.
His long-term future at United has not yet been decided. The Saudi Arabian club is believed to be exploring the possibility of free transfers. This reportedly appeals to Maguire, with the Sun reporting that he will “consider” the move to the Gulf state.
Saudi Arabia’s transfer window will remain open for several more weeks, leading to the possibility of an imminent transfer. However, it is claimed that Maguire is committed to looking at the rest of his United contract.
He can freely discuss pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs from January, but suggests he already prefers to stay at Old Trafford.
Speaking last month, Maguire said:
“I think it’s in a completely different place in terms of the structure behind the management staff since I started it six years ago.
“Last year, the (contract) clause was in their hands, so I had no choice. There was no talk. It only energized it and was extended.
“I am sure they will be sitting in the coming months, and we need to have a conversation about where we want to go.
“I’m thinking about what I want to do and what I want to do. I don’t want to put that on everyone, but it’s a great club to play and if you want to pop out as quickly as possible, you’re going to be ridiculous.”
Maguire will make his 250th appearance for United if he plays in the Manchester Derby after an international break. He has been involved in their books since 2019, since he joined in a deal worth around £80 million from Leicester City.
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