Manchester United are reportedly evaluating the long-term roles of Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw as part of plans to bring in a new central defender in 2026, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The move forms part of the club’s ongoing squad rebuild under Ruben Amorim, with both midfield and defence highlighted as priority areas.

Midfield still the top priority

United remain keen on strengthening their midfield, with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba considered a dream target after a failed pursuit in the summer.

However, while midfield additions top the list, a defensive signing is also expected to become a central focus — albeit not until the end of the current campaign.

Shaw and Harry Maguire under review

Both Shaw and Maguire are among United’s highest earners, with Maguire on £235,000 per week and Shaw taking home £200,000.

Their futures are now under review as Amorim and the United hierarchy assess whether to commit to fresh extensions or pivot towards new options.

Maguire, who had a one-year extension triggered earlier this year, remains tied to the club until June but could be offered further terms if he proves his value this season.

Shaw, meanwhile, has been filling in as a left-sided centre-back in Lisandro Martinez’s absence, with the Argentine still recovering from a serious ACL injury.

No January defender expected

Jones reports that United see the 2025/26 season as a scouting and evaluation period, making a January centre-back signing unlikely unless an elite option unexpectedly becomes available.

The plan is to use this campaign to identify long-term defensive solutions while weighing the contributions of existing players.

Defensive depth already in place

Amorim currently has a pool of options at centre-back, including Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and academy products Tyler Fredricson and Ayden Heaven.

However, with Shaw now 30 and Maguire still dividing opinion, United are expected to pursue an additional high-quality defender in 2026 to boost depth and stability.