£80m Newcastle target now told to stay at Premier League rivals

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Despite the defence being a strong point for Newcastle United last season, the club continue to be linked with fresh options there.

Indeed, Eddie Howe’s side are set for an increased schedule next season and, undoubtedly, expectations will rise at Newcastle.

With that in mind, perhaps links to the likes of Harry Maguire make sense.

Experienced in the Premier League and in games on the grandest stage, the Manchester United defender has often been touted as a target.

The 30-year-old was recently stripped of the captaincy at Old Trafford, leading to yet more speculation on his future.

Still, Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag has now spoken.

Harry Maguire still part of the plans at Manchester United

Ten Hag has stressed that the former Leicester City defender – the most expensive player in his position in history following his £80m move in 2019 – remains part of his plans.

Even without the armband at Old Trafford, Maguire has been backed to stay.

Speaking to the club’s official website, ten Hag said: “Harry’s very important for this squad, for this team.

“And, you know, in his role as centre-back, we have four centre-backs. I talked about consistency and we know we can’t do it with 11 players and so I’m happy we have four very good centre-backs.

“And we will need them, and he has to fight for his place, as he did last year. He has a high potential so I’m sure he will do it, he will fight for his place and then it’s up to him.”

It would not be a surprise to see Maguire move somewhere

While ten Hag is hardly going to come out and say he wants immediate rid of the player, it’s hard to imagine Maguire being happy with his standing.

Surely, he needs to be playing regular football to ensure his place in the England squad for Euro 2024 next summer.

So then, perhaps there will be some movement later in the window.

Newcastle ae believed to hold an interest in the player and it will be fascinating to see if they do get involved ahead of their return to the top table of European football.