Manchester United are expected to finish out the transfer window with a money-spending flourish, having already spent just under £70m.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen some fresh blood into his ageing squad and showed his purpose in doing so by signing Daniel James from Swansea and Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace.
But Solskjaer now wants to prioritise signing a centre-back.
And L’Equipe say that United are after Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile, who is also being monitored by Wolves.
United are still interested in Maguire but Leicester’s £80m valuation for the England international is proving to be a sticking point.
L’Equipe also say that United have been monitoring Badiashile’s progress for a few years.
The 21-year-old would cost close to £30m and Monaco manager Leonardo Jardim has apparently admitted he can’t guarantee the youngster playing time.
Valencia are also reportedly in the mix to secure Badiashile’s signature.
The Frenchman is confident playing out from the back and is strong and mobile – two things United need in defence.
Back in June when on international duty, Maguire was asked about his future but the former Hull man remained coy.
“When I’m with England I don’t think about anything to do with club football,” he said.
“As soon as I wear this badge it is important to focus on England and nothing else.
“So at the moment nothing else will fill my head, in terms of club football. I’m focused on the two games coming up.”
United’s rivals Manchester City are also in strong stead to sign Maguire, with manager Pep Guardiola said to be impressed with the Englishman’s form for Leicester.
West Ham defender Issa Diop was also on United’s radar but the Hammers wanted around £50m for him.
Executive vice-chairman is also being urged by club owners the Glazers to sell some players before they spend big on Maguire.
