According to Sky Sports, Manchester United have made an approach to Leicester City to negotiate a deal for Harry Maguire.

Harry Maguire is just coming off the back of a World Cup tournament in which he was a standout performer for England. Now, after only a single season with the Foxes, Maguire could be set for yet another step up in his career by switching to Old Trafford this summer.

The addition of the 25-year-old would leave Jose Mourinho’s squad overstocked with centre-back options, likely necessitating a departure. With Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Chris Smalling the established first team options already at the club, at least one exit would surely occur following the arrival of Maguire.

Amongst the most likely to depart in this scenario is Chris Smalling, who has struggled to hit the high standards expected of United defenders in recent times.

This state of affairs should put plenty of Premier League clubs on red alert and ready to pounce should Smalling suddenly become available. 

Amongst those interested outfits ought to be Everton, who would be wise to make a move for the England centre-back.

The Breakdown

Marco Silva will be desperate to bring at least one new centre-back to Goodison Park during this transfer window. With Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka aged 33 and 35 respectively, and Michael Keane having struggled for form so much last season, the Toffees are in dire need of an upgrade in this area of the pitch.

The capture of Smalling, in his peak years at 28-years-old, would be a very smart signing, adding title-winning experience to Everton’s back line. The leadership and organisation that the United man would bring could also help to get the best out of the likes Keane and Mason Holgate.

Transfermarkt value Smalling at £16.2 million, but with him being surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, Everton may even be able to land their man in a cut price deal.