Manchester United won’t sell Harry Maguire to Chelsea despite Erik ten Hag dropping club captain

Erik ten Hag wants to keep Harry Maguire at Manchester United this season with the club rejecting Chelsea’s interest in the defender.

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Doubts over Maguire’s future at Old Trafford have emerged with ten Hag dropping the club captain for Monday’s clash against Liverpool.

Raphael Varane stepped in to provide perhaps his best display in a United shirt with his partnership with summer signing Lisandro Martinez showing plenty of early promise.

Ten Hag spoke glowingly of the France international following the 2-1 win over Jurgen Klopp’s side, suggesting he will have a key role to play under the Dutchman.

But The Times reports Maguire still figures in the manager’s plans, with ten Hag planning to rotate his centre-halves throughout the season.

Chelsea have registered their interest in signing the 29-year-old, viewing him as an alternative to Wesley Fofana who has been the subject of three bids from Stamford Bridge – all rejected by the Foxes.

United however do not want to sell their 29-year-old who is also ready to fight for his future.

Varane and Martinez may now be viewed as ten Hag’s first choice pairing, however. The Argentina international, a £54m signing from Ajax displayed his combative qualities at Old Trafford on Monday night, laying down a marker with an early challenge on Mohamed Salah.

He brings to the team his determination, motivation and he has this mentality, this fighting spirit,’ Varane said of his teammate. ‘He showed it.’

Eric Bailly meanwhile is poised to join Marseille on a season-long loan – a move that will be made permanent should the Ligue 1 side qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Rio Ferdinand names the Man Utd star who should replace Harry Maguire as captain

Jamie