Phil Thompson admits he would be working to beat Manchester United to Harry Maguire if he was in Liverpool’s position.
The Anfield legend believes signing the Leicester City defender would help hoist the Reds to new levels of dominance as they seek long-awaited Premier League glory.
Maguire has been heavily linked to an Old Trafford switch in recent weeks on the back of an outstanding World Cup with England in Russia.
He has been one of numerous central defenders targeted this summer by a Jose Mourinho notably frustrated with his side’s lack of activity in the transfer market.
Discussing Liverpool’s own business and Maguire, Thompson told Sky Sports: “I like what Jurgen Klopp has done by trying to strengthen the players behind the front three and get more goals from that area.
“With one more centre-back, Liverpool can be a real force; I’d be looking at snatching Harry Maguire from under Manchester United’s noses.”
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Sky sources: Manchester United are preparing to make a bid for Leicester City’s England defender Harry Maguire before Thursday’s transfer deadline. #SSNpic.twitter.com/1kCkxqnyxX
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) August 5, 2018
Maguire’s World Cup impression reportedly threatens to see Leicester cite the £75million fee Liverpool paid for Virgil van Dijk when Manchester United do make their move. This would mark a significant increase on Maguire’s £50million valuation prior to his prominent role in Russia.
Though there is now no denying the value Maguire would add to any Premier League squad, it seems unlikely Liverpool will be entering the market for another central defender before Thursday.
The Reds will welcome back a Dejan Lovren thriving on confidence on the back of a stunning finish to the season at Anfield and a World Cup journey that saw him reach the final.
Whilst the Croatian is set to miss the opening day game at home to West Ham, Joe Gomez looks well-prepared to begin his transition into a central role beside Van Dijk.