Manchester United’s interim boss Michael Carrick has dropped what many are calling the biggest hint yet that a significant piece of business is about to be finalized at Old Trafford. Following a stellar run of form that has seen United win five of their last six matches, Carrick’s recent comments have centered on the "invaluable" nature of veteran experience—sparking reports that a new deal for a club stalwart is on the horizon.
According to TEAMtalk and other major outlets, the "major deal" in question involves a contract extension for center-back Harry Maguire.
Why Carrick Wants the Deal Done
Maguire’s current contract is set to expire this summer, and with Casemiro already confirmed to be leaving at the end of the season, Carrick is reportedly desperate to avoid a total "experience vacuum" in the dressing room.
In a press conference ahead of the weekend’s clash with Crystal Palace, Carrick was vocal about his desire to keep the 32-year-old at the club:
"It's hard to put a price on how valuable experience can be. Harry has gained an awful lot of it with this club. Within the squad, you want that younger potential, but you also need that 'sweet spot' in the middle with players at their peak. Harry is an impressive character... hopefully, there is a lot more to come." — Michael Carrick
The Stats Behind the Hint
Since Carrick took the reins from Ruben Amorim in January, Maguire has undergone a dramatic career resurgence.
The Return to Form: After a period of being sidelined under previous regimes, Maguire has started every game under Carrick, contributing to three clean sheets and providing a goal in the recent win over Everton.
The Terms: While United opted not to trigger a one-year extension on his current £190,000-a-week terms, reports suggest they are negotiating a new, multi-year deal with a restructured wage to reflect his "elder statesman" role.
England Recall: His performances have been so consistent that he is now widely tipped for a recall to the England squad for the upcoming March friendlies.
Carrick for Permanent Momentum
The "leak" of this deal comes at a time when Michael Carrick himself is the subject of intense transfer speculation—specifically regarding his own job title.
While INEOS has reportedly discussed high-profile alternatives like Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Martinez, the "Carrick Revolution" is making it difficult for the board to look elsewhere. Former teammate Gary Neville recently hinted that the club is already "planning for a future with Michael at the helm," and sanctioning a Maguire renewal would be a clear sign that the interim boss is being given a say in long-term squad building.
What’s Next for Carrick?
If the deal is signed as expected, it would mark one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent Premier League history for a player who was nearly sold to West Ham just two summers ago. For Carrick, securing Maguire’s future is the first step in a summer overhaul designed to blend United's "generational" youth (like Kobbie Mainoo and Lamine Yamal) with proven leaders.