Man United could sell England international at huge loss this summer

Manchester United are back in action on Thursday as they face La Liga side Barcelona in what promises to be a fascinating encounter. 

The Red Devils travel to the Nou Camp to face the Spanish giants in the Europa League play-offs first leg, with a place in the knockout stages of the competition at stake.

Last time out, United left it late to beat Leeds United 2-0, with both goals coming in the final ten minutes of the match.

The result closed the gap between United and second-placed Manchester City to just two points, although the reigning champions do have a game in hand.

Harry Maguire made a rare start against The Whites, partnering England teammate Luke Shaw at the heart of United’s defence.

Maguire has struggled for game time this term, starting just five league matches all season.

The England international is expected to leave Old Trafford this summer, but the club could have to take a huge loss if they do sell.

As per The Mail, Man United could lose around £40 million on the defender if they sell him at the end of the season.

Maguire made a rare start against Leeds on Sunday

The Englishman joined United from Leicester City back in 2019 for a fee of £80 million, a world record for a defender.

During his first three seasons at Old Trafford, Maguire was a regular at centre-back, but he has fallen down the pecking order since Erik ten Hag took charge of the club last summer.

Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have often been preferred as Ten Hag’s first choice pairing, while Victor Lindelof has also been used ahead of Maguire more often than not.

Shaw has also been used as a makeshift centre-back ahead of Maguire at times, and both parties are now said to be convinced that a move would be the best solution.

United fear that they could demand just half of what they paid for the player three-and-a-half years ago, though.

Since joining the club, Maguire has made more than 160 appearances for The Red Devils.

His current contract is due to expire in the summer of 2025, but United could look to sell him now before his value drops further.