Maguire calls in sick as United talk tough

HARRY MAGUIRE called in sick and missed training at Leicester yesterday as talks over a move to Manchester United continue.

The england defender telephoned the club first thing and spoke to the team doctor, who agreed Maguire should spend the day resting.

It is the first session Maguire (below) has missed in pre- season and raises suspicions a move to United could be imminent. Leicester insist nothing has been agreed.

United executive chairman ed Woodward has been negotiating with Leicester sporting director Jon rudkin. United manager Ole Gunnar solskjaer had wanted the 26-year-old on board for the start of pre-season to get acquainted with his side’s style of play, but there has been no breakthrough.

Leicester want a world record fee for the defender — at least £80million — and Woodward is trying to drive them down. Amid the discussions, Maguire’s behaviour has been exemplary. Leicester manager Brendan rodgers reports a player fully engaged in training and Maguire has featured in all three friendlies since returning from his holiday. he was given an extended break having played for england in the Nations League finals. ROMELU LUKAKU has been left out of Manchester United’s squad to face kristiansund as his protracted move to Inter Milan reaches a critical stage. The Italian club had a £54m bid rejected last week but further talks are planned in the next 48 hours.