Manchester United are planning to sign a midfield replacement for the departing Casemiro in the summer transfer window and have identified a world-class talent as their target.
Casemiro’s imminent departure from Old Trafford has become increasingly significant since the appointment of Michael Carrick as Manchester United’s interim boss. This is down to the Brazilian’s consistent solid performances and ability to provide a threat from set-pieces.
Bruno Fernandes has seemed to have formed a strong partnership with the 34-year-old, both ageing players who are bringing the best out of each other in their twilight years and this chemistry has undoubtedly played a huge factor in United’s upturn in form.
Replacing a five-time Champions League winner is going to be a difficult task, no matter what, but what makes this task even harder is the key role he will likely play in the side until the very last game of the current campaign.
However, a recommendation from the departing player on who could slot into his role seamlessly will certainly give the higher-ups at the club something to think about. A player who is Premier League proven and regarded as one of the top talents in the league, if not Europe.
United target Guimaraes as Casemiro replacement
It has been rumoured that Bruno Guimaraes is the player Casemiro personally recommended as his successor. The two players would have a great bond as teammates at the international level, and there is no doubt that Guimaraes is Premier League quality.
Newcastle United appointed the 28-year-old as captain, and he never looked back. He is adored around Tyneside and clearly loves the club, but a lacklustre season from Newcastle, where it seems they will fail to achieve Champions League qualification, could see the fan-favourite depart in the summer.
According to Reuters, United are looking to purchase the Brazilian for around £70 million, but persistent interest from La Liga giants Real Madrid has complicated the proposed move, seemingly setting up a blockbuster summer transfer battle.
The departure of Casemiro will free up some funds for the club, but a hefty price tag, along with likely high wage demands, could push the deal over INEOS’s planned budget for a replacement.
However, the move would show a great deal of intent to United fans and other clubs in the league about the Red Devils’ goals for next season.
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Is Guimaraes perfect for United?
Having already gained the blessing of Casemiro, it is clear that the veteran is confident his Brazilian team-mate is suited to staying in England to help bring United back to the glory days and regular European football.
Carrick’s most burning question is how to replace the five-time Champions League winner. The profile of Guimaraes is more athletic and attacking than Casemiro’s, with raw talent unmatched by many midfielders in the league and a passion for his side that is intrinsic and invaluable to a club’s manager.
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Manchester United fans support new signings from the off, and with Guimaraes, this will be no different if not more intense, due to the 28-year-old’s well-known passion and charisma, especially after seeing him play in the Theatre of Dreams for the first time.
Whatever happens with Guimaraes’s transfer, it is evident that a Casemiro replacement is needed at Old Trafford, and the right player who can take the side to the next level has to be brought in. The upcoming seasons could be plagued by an inconsistent midfield.
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