Chelsea are interested in signing Manchester United captain Harry Maguire in swap deal

In one of the more surprising transfer stories of the window so far, Chelsea have expressed an interest in signing Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, according to reports.

Maguire, who could be dropped from Erik ten Hag's starting line-up for Monday's clash against Liverpool, struggled for form last season as United's leaky defence conceded 57 league goals.

But despite ongoing criticism over his performances, Ten Hag has repeatedly backed the England international, starting him in recent defeats to Brighton and Brentford.

The 29-year-old may not start at Old Trafford next week but it was reported on Friday night that big spenders Chelsea have made a shock approach for the player.

The Daily Mail claim the Blues have enquired about bringing the defender to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea reportedly raised the possibility of signing Maguire as part of Manchester United's attempts to sign Christian Pulisic earlier this week.

The west London club were said to be unwilling to send Pulisic on loan to United this summer as they believe Erik ten Hag's side to be a rival.

But they would be willing to discuss a deal if it involved Maguire going in the opposite direction.

With all that being said, a deal to sign Wesley Fofana from Leicester still remains a priority for Chelsea.

The French defender is expected to be left out of Brendan Rodgers' squad for their Premier League clash against Southampton on Saturday.

Chelsea have so far had two bids in excess of £60 million rejected for Fofana, according to Sky Sports.

Last week, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel admitted that his squad lacked strength in depth at the back.

“We could use one more central defender,” he admitted last week. “If you look at the numbers and we play with a back three. 

“The profile of the guys in the three is a little bit different, I admit. Playing with Azpi, more a fullback than central defender. Cucurella it’s possible.

“Both of them cannot play as central defenders. We could use one more central defender. Let’s see what happens.”

On the subject of Harry Maguire's future, it was reported last month that the Manchester United captain turned down a potential opportunity to join Barcelona this summer.

According to The Mirror, Maguire has been uplifted by the show of faith from his manager and informed his representatives to reject any approach from the Catalan club, who were interested in signing him.

Maguire's name had been mentioned as part of a potential swap deal involving Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

A source told The Mirror: "Some players, especially with some of the criticism flying around, would have been desperate to go if Barcelona came calling.

"But Harry is unmoved and wants to have a successful season with United. When it comes to mental strength, Harry has it in spades.

"As usual he will get down to doing what he does best."

A close friend added: "Harry has been made the scapegoat for Manchester United's poor displays last season.

"Some so-called big players had far worse games than him. It seems that someone has to pay the price.

"The other season it was David de Gea who has been magnificent during his time at the club."