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11th July 2022
01:34pm BST
Cristiano Ronaldo had been viewed by some as a possible alternative for the United captaincy, but his eagerness to leave the club has almost certainly ruled him out.
As well as allaying speculation about Maguire's position as captain, Ten Hag's comments also appear to suggest he is seen as a starter at the heart of United's defence.
Maguire played alongside Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof last season. United are also being linked with a £50m-move for Ajax's Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez, who some have suggested might replace Maguire if he does arrive.
So far, United have only concluded one transfer, with Dutch left-back Tyrell Malacia arriving from Feyenoord last week.
A long-running pursuit of Frenkie de Jong, who Ten Hag knows from his time at Ajax, is showing no sign of nearing its end. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has insisted the player is not for sale, with reports also claiming De Jong wants to remain at the Camp Nou.
Barca's finances, however, could mean that the club have no choice but to sell if a satisfactory offer arrives and United are still believed to be in discussions with the club with a view to reaching a deal.
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