Manchester United clear to sign £90m-rated defender

Manchester United have received a clear route to acquire the services of defender Harry Maguire with Manchester City deciding against making a renewed approach.

The England international has been earmarked as a top defensive target for both United and City, and the pair are said to have failed with respective £70m bids for the central defender.

According to 90min, the Citizens have decided against renewing their interest in the central defender after knowing that the Foxes are eyeing a package of more than £75m.

The same publication adds that United have the clear advantage in pursuing the former Hull City man and they are prepared to make a fresh offer in the next few days.

United had a forgettable season last term as they finished in the sixth position and that was primarily due to a weak backline which conceded more than 50 goals.

As such, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to solve the concern and Maguire has been identified as the prime target following the club's failed attempt to land him last summer.

Leicester City were initially said to demand around £90m for their prized asset, but they now seem prepared to accept a package of more than £75m which would make him the most-expensive defender in history.