Manchester United can't afford to part ways with Harry Maguire after defender's departure

It seemed inevitable that Manchester United would part ways with one - if not more - of their centre-backs this summer. With the signing of Lisandro Martinez, Erik ten Hag had five senior options in this position and that is before you consider the likes of Axel Tuanzebe and also the club's academy defenders.

The M.E.N. understand that Eric Bailly looks likely to join Olympique Marseille loan with an option to buy the defender if he impresses during his spell in France. And with this in mind, United should not sanction a deal for Harry Maguire, even amid apparent interest from Chelsea.

The fact he would likely improve Chelsea and therefore hamper United's chances of finishing in the top four next season aside, Ten Hag cannot leave himself short of cover in a position he has just spent an initial fee of £46m improving. Yes, Maguire was in poor form last season, but he has started the 2021/22 campaign well despite the club shipping six goals in two games.

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Raphael Varane is an experienced and solid option to have either as a starter or rotation, but as United fans saw last season, you can 't trust him to stay fit. He missed 16 games through injury last season, and if this was to continue this year then it would spell disaster if there is not a deputy waiting in the wings.

Victor Lindelof is a fine centre-back but he is much worse than Maguire in possession. In addition to this, the Swedish defender thrives on the right-hand side whereas Maguire can play either centre-back role.

There is the argument that United have both Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe to call upon as well, but if the club are serious about earning a top-four