Manchester United have shattered the world record fee for a defender to secure the signature of Harry Maguire from Leicester City. The long-awaited move was finalized after negotiations between the two clubs culminated in a transfer worth a staggering £80 million. This significant investment makes Maguire the most expensive defender in football history.

Leicester City's firm stance on their valuation of Maguire had been clear from the outset, with owner Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha holding out for a substantial fee to part ways with the England center-back. This resolute negotiating strategy left Manchester United's executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward, facing a challenging decision as he navigated the intricate transfer dealings to bring Maguire to Old Trafford.

United's pursuit of Maguire had been fueled by manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's desire to reinforce the team's defense with a commanding figure both on and off the pitch. The defender's leadership qualities and professional demeanor were highly praised, making him a top priority for Solskjaer in the summer transfer market. After weeks of intensive negotiations, United successfully met Leicester's valuation, sealing the deal for the highly sought-after defender.

Manchester City had also expressed interest in Maguire as a potential replacement for Vincent Kompany but ultimately withdrew from the race due to Leicester's high demands. Pep Guardiola acknowledged Maguire's quality but conceded that City could not afford the hefty price tag attached to the player.

Amidst discussions around the record-breaking transfer, social media was abuzz with a mix of nostalgia, analysis, and opinions on the magnitude of the deal. Fans reflected on the evolution of transfer fees in football and engaged in spirited debate over the valuation of players in today's market. Some comments delved into the nuances of Maguire's career, shedding light on his journey to becoming the world's most expensive defender.

As Harry Maguire embarks on a new chapter at Manchester United, the footballing world eagerly anticipates how the defender will shape the team's backline and contribute to their aspirations for the upcoming season.

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**(Photo: Manchester United via Getty Images)**