According to Daily Mail, Manchester City have received a massive boost in their pursuit of Harry Maguire after it was revealed that the Leicester City defender prefers a move to Etihad over joining Manchester United at Old Trafford. However, the report also claims that the Foxes are likely to demand a record fee for the England international, who could be on the verge of leaving the King Power Stadium this summer.
Maguire’s success during the 2018/19 campaign
It has been yet another remarkable campaign for Maguire this past season, having played a key role for both club and country.
The 26-year-old was an ever-present figure in the Leicester backline, although he did miss a few matches with a knee injury. But, he still ended the campaign with 31 appearances, playing a critical role in an excellent season that that saw the Foxes finish ninth in the league table.
Maguire’s success in the 2018 FIFA World Cup with England has been already well documented. And the defender has continued to play a crucial role in Gareth Southgate’s setup in the ongoing UEFA Nations League.
What can Maguire bring to the table?
Maguire is advertised as a robust defender, whose aggression and physicality make him an intimidating figure for the attackers. The 26-year-old is also adept in winning back possession as well as making good use of his positional awareness. He notably averaged 1.2 interceptions per game in the recently concluded Premier League campaign.
Also, the England international boasts a tall frame of 1.94m. And that gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to aerial duels, with the defender winning 1.1 headed duels per game. It also makes him an indirect threat from set-pieces. Maguire has scored three goals in the Premier League during the 2018/19 campaign.
Where does Maguire fit it at Man City?
Maguire will be a solid addition to the Manchester City side, who will be preparing for life without Vincent Kompany next season. The veteran defender has confirmed he will be leaving the club this summer, paving the way for Maguire to compete with the defensive trifecta of John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte for a place in the starting lineup.
Otamendi, however, has been linked with a move away from Etihad, with Atletico Madrid reportedly interested in his services. It is also unlikely that the Argentine will play a crucial role even if he stays at the club next season. Hence, Maguire will only have to compete with Stones to make himself a regular fixture alongside Laporte at the heart of City’s four-man backline.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
