Man Utd Complete Dramatic U-Turn as Transfer-Listed Star Set for New Contract and Long-Term Future

Manchester United have had a change of heart regarding a player they had actively tried to get rid of in each of the previous two summer transfer windows. Not only will the club now retain him, but he's also going to sign a new contract and possibly remain at Old Trafford once his playing career comes to an end.

As several squad changes are in the offing this summer, United will lose Tom Heaton, Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, and Christian Eriksen as free agents. In addition to that, they're also reportedly open to listening to bids for star names such as Andre Onana, Casemiro, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and Rasmus Hojlund.

Although it has been difficult to offload unwanted players in recent windows, one formerly transfer-listed star has switched things around for himself—Harry Maguire.

The 32-year-old centre-back was very nearly sold to West Ham in 2023 after the clubs agreed on a £30 million fee. But the deal collapsed when personal terms could not be reached. Despite the United career peaks and troughs, Maguire's profile at the club has soared, especially under new manager Ruben Amorim.

According to The Athletic, Maguire's recent performances—most notably a spectacular late winner in the Europa League versus Lyon—have impressed not just Amorim but also United's hierarchy. Beyond his goal, his composure, leadership, and impact at both ends of the pitch have won him a new level of respect, it is claimed.

As a result, Maguire is now viewed as a long-term presence at the club. Talks over a new contract will begin this summer, following the triggering of a contract extension in January. His current agreement runs out at the end of the 2025/26 season, but United are exploring options that would keep him at the club beyond retirement.

More United News: Maguire's New Partner and Cunha Deal Imminent

In another defensive boost, Sky Sports reports that United are in the mix to sign Germany defender Jonathan Tah, who will leave Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer this summer. There's lots of competition, however, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and even Real Madrid—thanks to the Xabi Alonso connection—all wanting to sign him.

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk has learned that the Red Devils are close to putting pen to paper on a deal for Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha. Negotiations are said to be "very advanced," and the Wolves frontman will allegedly join Amorim's army for 2025/26. He would likely feature in one of the two attacking midfield roles behind the central striker.