Manchester United transfer news as Everton ready to launch Harry Maguire move

Everton are planning to join the race for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, with Michael Keane and Mason Holgate possibly making way, according to TEAMtalk.

The online outlet has reported on 1 August that Everton boss Sean Dyche is prepared to move Keane and Holgate on to raise funds which would then be put towards a move for Maguire

Dyche is reportedly a big admirer of the England centre-back and sees him as somebody who can add both quality and experience to his Everton squad in a step towards avoiding another relegation scrap in the coming Premier League season.

An expensive deal to consider

As much sense as a move for Maguire would make for the Toffees, the effect he has on the team has to be weighed up against his price tag. If Manchester United persist with their £40million+ valuation of the defender, a move to Merseyside looks unlikely.

West Ham have already had a £20million bid for Maguire turned down, and it looks unlikely they will return, while the Manchester Evening News [29 July] shared that United are unwilling to budge on their valuation.

Even with the outgoing defenders to make way for the former Manchester United captain, it looks unlikely that Everton would be able to raise the level of funds needed.

If the deal for Maguire can be done, it would be a fantastic one for Everton. A top-quality player and leader, who is still highly regarded at international level despite a poor year for his club, would be a brilliant addition to a weak Everton squad.

In a Dyche system where his role would be to sit deeper as his priority rather than sitting on the halfway line as part of a high line, Maguire’s talent would be allowed to thrive.