Harry Maguire's long-term future at Manchester United remains uncertain as the January transfer window approaches.

United have just a few days to wait before they are able to strengthen their squad with new signings via the transfer market. It remains to be seen what business the Reds plan to conduct in the New Year, but one topic of conversation within the Old Trafford hierarchy may be about some existing members of the squad.

Maguire's contract is set to expire at the end of the season, although United do have the option to extend the centre-back's deal by a further 12 months up to 2026. Now, an update has emerged about Maguire's future, suggesting a decision may be on the cards in the not-too-distance future.

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According to Give Me Sport, Ruben Amorim is determined to have United activate the one-year option in Maguire's contract. The report claims that Amorim views the defender as a key player in the United squad and has been urging the Old Trafford chiefs to extend his contract before the January window opens.

From New Year's Day, Maguire will be able to talk to clubs outside England over signing a pre-contract agreement to leave United as a free agent next summer. Maguire could captain United once again on Monday against Newcastle in the absence of the suspended Bruno Fernandes, and Amorim recently spoke about the importance the centre-back has to the squad.

"He [Maguire] works really well, he is focused on the job and not what people say," Amorim told reporters on Friday. "He has no excuses, even if he had some tough moments.

"I think in that department he is an example. He is there to play, to help the team and he's trying to do that."