Manchester United are reportedly impressed by one Premier League star who could be Casemiro’s replacement at Old Trafford next season.
Manchester United confirmed last month that Casemiro will leave the club when his contract runs out at the end of the season.
The Brazilian midfielder joined United from Real Madrid in the summer of 2022 and has since lifted both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup. He also opened the scoring in the 2023 Carabao Cup final victory over Newcastle United.
Following a challenging 2023/24 season, Casemiro has rediscovered his form and re-established himself as one of United’s key figures. He has played a vital role in the team’s recent resurgence under Michael Carrick.
With 12 matches left to play, the midfielder will be determined to help United secure a return to the Champions League and finish his spell at Old Trafford on a positive note.
Meanwhile, those upstairs at the club will be deciding how they will replace the veteran midfielder when the summer transfer window opens.
United ‘impressed’ by 49-game Premier League star
United were going to need to sign a midfielder regardless of Casemiro’s future but now there are at least two signings needed to help replace him.
There are links to big-money stars such as Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson but the Reds will also be considering other options.
One of those appears to be Nottingham Forest star Ibrahim Sangare, with GiveMeSport reporting that United’s recruitment team have been ‘impressed’ with the Ivory Coast midfielder.
Sangare joined Forest from PSV Eindhoven in 2024 and has made 49 appearances in the Premier League since then. He brings experience of the English league while also potentially being a lower-cost option, especially if Forest are relegated to the Championship.
United are not going to have an unlimited amount to spend in the summer and while they will want a marque signing like Anderson, another addition like Sangare could be a smart move.
United might need even more midfielders
United’s midfield dynamics have changed dramatically now that Ruben Amorim is out of the door. There is an extra midfielder in the team due to the formation and Bruno Fernandes is no longer an option in those deeper roles.
Manuel Ugarte’s future also remains uncertain as he is yet to properly impress at Old Trafford since his move from PSG.
Read more: Man Utd ‘keen to offload’ Manuel Ugarte after Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia this summer
That could leave Kobbie Mainoo as the only senior player who is suited to playing in the midfield pivot for the start of next season. Some may argue that two midfield signings might not even be enough if United are competing in European competition again.
Alongside new additions, it may also be useful if United can promote from the academy. The likes of Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fletcher, Jim Thwaites and Sekou Kone could provide depth.
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