Could Harry Maguire be set for a new chapter in Italy? Reports suggest that the Manchester United centre-back has been offered to Serie A title holders Inter Milan, even though he recently signed an extension to his contract at Old Trafford. The 33-year-old’s long and often turbulent stint with the Red Devils appears to be nearing an end as the Nerazzurri aim to strengthen their defence.

Veteran United defender exploring Italian opportunity

As per Italian daily La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter’s top executives Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio are busy evaluating options from different leagues in preparation for the upcoming season. Among the proposals received is one from the Premier League, involving Maguire — once the world’s most expensive defender following his £80 million move to United in 2019 — who has reportedly been suggested as a viable addition for the Italian champions.

Although Maguire extended his contract with Manchester United until 2027 after signing a new deal in April, his position at the club remains uncertain. Having been left out of England’s World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel and struggling with a persistent thigh injury, a move to Italy could give him a fresh start.

“They criticise me because I am the United captain and I make headlines. They create false stories to get clicks,” Maguire had earlier remarked, referring to the heavy scrutiny he has often faced.

Inter’s primary target lies elsewhere

While the idea of Maguire joining Inter Milan has created buzz, the club’s recruitment focus appears to be directed toward another defender. Udinese’s Oumar Solet tops Inter’s transfer shortlist, with the 26-year-old Frenchman considered the perfect fit for Cristian Chivu’s tactical structure. Solet has been one of Serie A’s standout defenders, especially known for his ability to carry the ball out from the back.

Backed by owners Oaktree, Inter’s management is reportedly weighing up a substantial long-term investment in Solet, potentially tying him to the club until 2031. The plan matches Inter’s broader strategy of acquiring younger players who offer both on-field stability and long-term financial upside. Solet’s adaptability — capable of playing as a conventional centre-back or in a dynamic role within a back-three system — makes him a preferred option compared to the more senior Maguire.

Defensive reshuffle driving Inter’s urgency

Inter’s need for reinforcements in defence has been accelerated by expected departures of key players. Veteran defender Francesco Acerbi is nearing the end of his contract, while Stefan de Vrij is also set to depart, leaving a major gap in the central defence. With both the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia to defend, manager Chivu is keen on signing defenders ready to perform immediately.

Maguire’s experience could be invaluable in this situation, but his fitness record raises concerns. During the 2025-26 campaign, he made 25 appearances and contributed four goals, though recurring thigh problems affected his consistency.

A complex legacy at Old Trafford

Should Maguire eventually head to Italy, he will leave behind a complicated legacy at Manchester United — one defined by leadership, resilience, and intense public scrutiny. Across his 237 appearances for the club, the defender often found himself at the centre of online criticism, reaching a distressing low in 2022 when his home was targeted with a bomb threat. Such challenges have clearly impacted his time in Manchester, forcing him to repeatedly defend his professionalism.

Despite the “false stories” that Maguire has spoken about, his quality and experience remain beyond doubt. Serie A has previously served as a revitalising destination for Premier League defenders, as seen in the successful transitions of Chris Smalling and Fikayo Tomori — a path Maguire might now look to follow.