Three centre-backs Manchester United could sign to replace Harry Maguire

Maguire's recent wage increase will make it more difficult for the Red Devils to sell him, but there is allegedly not a shortage of interest, and the 30-year-old is unlikely to be at Old Trafford past the transfer deadline.

Man United have released Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe this summer, while Eric Bailly is also expected to depart on a permanent basis, so it would be fair to assume that a new centre-back would arrive if Maguire leaves.

Here, Sports Mole looks at three possible options for the 20-time English champions, who have Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof as their three main players in central defence.

Axel Disasi (Monaco)

Disasi's future is currently the subject of much speculation, with the 25-year-old thought to be a target for Man United, while Newcastle United have also been heavily linked with his services.

The France international was in impressive form for Monaco during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 49 occasions in all competitions, contributing six goals and four assists in the process.

Disasi has another two years left on his contract but will allegedly be allowed to leave for the right price this summer, and it would be a surprise to see him at Monaco past the transfer deadline.

Man United's owners are now said to be willing to back Ten Hag this summer despite the uncertainty surrounding a potential sale of the club, and if Maguire could be sold for around £40m, the money could be reinvested straight back in the squad to bring in the Frenchman.

Max Kilman (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

Wolves will do well to keep hold of Kilman this summer, with Napoli currently thought to be the favourites to secure his signature from Julen Lopetegui's side.

However, Man United could yet enter the race for a player who has proved himself to be an impressive performer for his Premier League club over the last three seasons.

Kilman, who has three years left to run on his contract at Molineux, featured on 41 occasions at club level during the 2022-23 campaign, including 37 outings in the Premier League.

Strong in the air and impressive with the ball at his feet, the Englishman could be a very smart signing for Man United, and it does appear that he is ready to make the next step in his career.

Antonio Silva (Benfica)

Silva is the outsider on this list, as it will be difficult for Man United to sign a player who is widely regarded to be one of the best youngsters in world football.

The 19-year-old, who is thought to be on the radar of a number of major European clubs, only signed a contract extension with Benfica last September, with his current terms running until June 2027.

The Portugal international was a vital player for Benfica last season, making 46 appearances in all competitions, scoring five times, including two goals in 10 Champions League appearances.

Silva will not turn 20 until October but his performances have been exceptional, and it would not be a shock to see him at a real powerhouse over the next couple of seasons.

Benfica are in a strong position to keep hold of the Portuguese for at least one more season, though, and it will be tough for Man United to prise him away in the current market.