Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says that Harry Maguire was always his No.1 target ahead of what could be the England defender’s Red Devils debut on Sunday.
Maguire became the world’s most expensive defender when he swapped Leicester City for United this summer, with Solskjaer sanctioning an £80million purchase.
That price tag will come with an added pressure as the Norwegian hopes that Maguire can revolutionise his side’s defence, but the manager is backing the 26-year-old to make a big difference.
“I’m delighted that we got Harry in,” Solskjaer told reporters at his press conference prior to the Chelsea game.
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“He’s going to be great for this club. He was my number one target, and of course it took some time, but it does sometimes take time.
”I, more or less, made my mind up when we played Leicester last season that if it’s possible to get him we should try, because he’s so composed on the ball and he gives the team another dimension.
“He’s already come in and shown the presence that he will be and what impact he’ll have in the squad.
“He’s a leader, an established international, a goal threat, a very, very good defender.”
Solskjaer added that Maguire will be a key influence on his teammates as United look to play out from the back this season.
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“It is important to have a foundation to build from and to play from, and the spine of the team is always key,” the Norwegian added.
“If we can get a settled back four with David (de Gea) in behind them, I’m sure we’ll create enough chances to score goals.
”They’re not just defenders these boys. They’ve all got attacking attributes, as well as being good defenders.“
