Harry Maguire completed his world record to Manchester United that makes him the most expensive defender of all-time. The English Premier League side announced Maguire’s £80m transfer from Leicester City after the England international completed his medical. Maguire has signed a six-year contract for the Red Devils.

“I am delighted to have signed for this great club,” Maguire was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Leicester and would like to thank everyone at the club and the fans for their fantastic support over the past two seasons. However, when Manchester United come knocking on your door, it is an incredible opportunity.

Harry Maguire is a Manchester United Player

“From my conversations with the manager, I am excited about the vision and plans he has for the team. It’s clear to see that Ole [Gunnar Solskjær] is building a team to win trophies. I am now looking forward to meeting my new teammates and getting the season started,” Maguire added.

United Welcomes Most Expensive Defender

United’s £80m transfer from Leicester made him most expensive defender in football surpassing the £75m Liverpool had paid for Virgil Van Dijk last winter. Liverpool signed the Dutch Captain from Southampton during the 2017-18 winter transfer window. Leicester made a considerable profit from Maguire’s signing to Manchester United having signed him from Hull City for just £17m.

“Harry is one of the best centre-backs in the game today and I am delighted we have secured his signature,” Solskjær told the British tabloid. “He is a great reader of the game and has a strong presence on the pitch with the ability to remain calm under pressure. I can see he will fit well into this group both on and off the pitch. He has a great personality and is a fantastic addition to the club. I would like to welcome Harry to Manchester United and we are looking forward to working with him as we prepare for the new season.”

Meanwhile, United’s city rivals Manchester City were also interested in the 26-year-old centre-back but backed out after refusing to pay Leicester’s high demand for Maguire. City coach Pep Guardiola later congratulated United for the signing of the 20-time capped English international and also revealed City’s initial interest in him following the Community Shield victory over Liverpool.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 05, 2019 06:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).