Manchester United finally agreed a deal for Harry Maguire last week, despite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer making it clear he was his number one target some months ago.

After spending weeks negotiating the price, only to pay what Leicester initially demanded, Maguire has been denied a pre-season with his new club, meaning he may make his first appearance against Chelsea later today.

Solskjaer has spoken at his delight at getting Maguire to sign for the club.

I’m delighted that we got Harry in. He’s going to be great for this club. He was my number one target, and of course it took some time, but it does sometimes take time.

I, more or less, made my mind up when we played Leicester last season that if it’s possible to get him we should try, because he’s so composed on the ball and he gives the team another dimension.

He’s already come in and shown the presence that he will be and what impact he’ll have in the squad. He’s a leader, an established international, a goal threat, a very, very good defender.

United’s defensive record last season was the worst for decades. Solskjaer has stressed the importance of having a solid back four without the need for much rotation.

Presumably, Solskjaer is planning for Shaw, Maguire, Lindelof and Wan-Bissaka as his first choice.

It is important to have a foundation to build from and to play from, and the spine of the team is always key. If we can get a settled back four with David in behind them, I’m sure we’ll create enough chances to score goals.

They’re not just defenders these boys. They’ve all got attacking attributes, as well as being good defenders.