Matt Hargreaves in talks with the reps of £80m Man Utd star over contract extension

Manchester United director of football negotiations Matt Hargreaves has held initial talks with the representatives of Harry Maguire over a new deal, according to the Sun.

The 32-year-old Red Devils defender is out of contract at the end of the season after the one-year extension in his contract was triggered in January.

It has been reported that Maguire may need to take a hefty pay cut for Man United to extend his deal, but he could remain on the same terms.

The England international took home £190,000 per week last term, but like the rest of his teammates, his salary has been reduced by 25 per cent for this season after the Old Trafford club failed to qualify for the Champions League.

As a result, Maguire is on around £140,000 per week at the moment and could continue to earn it if an extension is agreed.

He has become a key player under Man United head coach Ruben Amorim, featuring in 38 of the 50 games the Portuguese has overseen.

Maguire joined the Red Devils from Leicester City for a world record £80 million fee for a defender in 2019.

He remains the most expensive defender in history and could remain at the club beyond the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

Man United executives are said to be keen for Maguire to have a long-term future at the club beyond his playing days.

It is believed they want him to continue in a coaching role after he ends his playing career as they are convinced the academy could benefit from his wealth of experience.

Maguire demonstrated exemplary professionalism after he was stripped of the captaincy by former manager Erik ten Hag.

It has left a lasting impression on the decision-makers at the club, and whether it will culminate in a new deal in the coming months remains to be seen.

Article written by Alani Adefunmiloye .