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This article is part of Football FanCast's Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba's haircuts to League Two relegation battles...

When you're down and out, sometimes all you need is a bit of a kick-start to help get things going again. Since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson from Old Trafford, Manchester United have been in a bit of a slumber.

The Red Devils are well and truly the sleeping giants of the Premier League and have had to sit and watch their two greatest rivals, Manchester City and Liverpool, win the two biggest titles on offer last season.

After an underwhelming end to the campaign, United's struggles have seemingly continued into the transfer window. Aside from deals for Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side remain distant from completing another significant signing, whilst the futures of Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku remain uncertain.

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Indeed, the off-the-pitch problems with wanting the Glazer family out is certainly symbolic of the entire mood surrounding the club.

But, with reports suggesting United's main target at centre-back, Harry Maguire, will cost a world-record fee for a defender, there may be a silver lining to it all. Whether the England international is adjudged to be worth the £80m to £90m being quoted for him is rather irrelevant; more important would be the statement behind United getting a gargantuan deal done for the 6 foot 4 defender.

The club are in dire need of a blockbuster move that can help propel them back into the debate surrounding the biggest and best clubs. Being able to parade a world-record fee for a defender could have the sort of galvanising effect that they desperately desire; it would reinforce the mentality of United being one of the elite sides, a fact that has arguably slipped the mind of most during their recent struggles.

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Aside from the potential transformational effect Maguire could have on the side on the pitch, United would feel like a powerhouse once more off it. It may be a cliche, but sometimes looking good on the outside is the key to feeling good on the inside.

Paying a world-record amount for a new signing would generate headlines and bring Solskjaer's side back to the centre of attention once more. It would reinvigorate the fans, the players and the club as a whole. And boy do United need it.