Hull City looking to tie down Harry Maguire as number of admirers grows

HEAD COACH Marco Silva has revealed that Hull City are speaking to Harry Maguire about a new deal and is backing the in-form defender to win an England call-up.
Hull City's Harry Maguire challenges Burnley's George Boyd at the KCOM Stadium last Saturday (Picture: Mike Egerton/PA Wire).Hull City's Harry Maguire challenges Burnley's George Boyd at the KCOM Stadium last Saturday (Picture: Mike Egerton/PA Wire).
Hull City's Harry Maguire challenges Burnley's George Boyd at the KCOM Stadium last Saturday (Picture: Mike Egerton/PA Wire).

The former Sheffield United centre-half has been in outstanding form since Silva’s arrival in January and the Tigers’ boss has stressed the importance of securing his long-term future in East Yorkshire.

Maguire, subject of long-standing interest from Middlesbrough, has 18 months left on his contract, with a string of impressive performances in recent months having alerted a number of other top-flight clubs including Tottenham, Everton and Southampton.

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In a clear attempt to ward off interest, Hull have entered into discussions with Maguire, who celebrates his 24th birthday today, although there is no indication that a swift conclusion is on the cards.

Revealing at yesterday’s pre-weekend press conference that Hull are speaking with Maguire regarding fresh terms, Silva said: “Yes. At this moment it is not close, but when there is something new, you will know.

“It is important that we try and close this situation as soon as possible. First of all, to make the player a little more comfortable. Also for us, the club and the fans because he is an important player.

“(But) he needs to think in the present because that is the most important. Only if he continues to work game by game can he improve in his career.”

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Silva says he expects Maguire to line up in tomorrow’s encounter away to champions Leicester after he soldiered on after picking up a knock in the first half of last weekend’s draw with Burnley.

On the prospects of the Yorkshireman earning a senior England call, following impressive displays against the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool, Silva added: “Of course it is not my decision, but I hope (he will get the chance).

“What I have seen in Harry in the last two months, he will play as soon as possible for the national team. I have seen good skills in him for that.

“He has fantastic character. I am sure he will have a great career.”

Lazar Markovic is available for tomorrow’s trip to the East Midlands, while Sam Clucas is back from suspension. Evandro is sidelined.