Another busy summer transfer window looks to be in store for Manchester United, who have several squad issues to address. One of those is replacing former Real Madrid star Casemiro, who is leaving the club at the end of his contract in June.
Uncertainty is growing over Joshua Zirkzee’s future amid a lack of game time. There’s no escaping Manuel Ugarte’s struggles since joining the Red Devils.
Manchester United’s transfer chiefs are tasked with continuing a rebuild, but won’t be targeting profiles to fit Ruben Amorim’s system on this occasion. It’s still unknown who will be in charge come next season, but interim coach Michael Carrick seems to be the frontrunner.
Manchester United’s Camavinga curiosity
The main focus will be on finding the ideal Casemiro replacement, and it seems United have someone in mind. Returning to Madrid for Eduardo Camavinga seems to be an option.
According to Spanish outlet OK Diario, the Reds are interested in swooping for the Frenchman. He was on the club’s wishlist before making the move to the Santiago Bernabeu from Rennes for £34.4m in 2021.
Camavinga hasn’t quite reached the heights many anticipated following his move to the Spanish capital. It’s said that the La Liga giants are “willing” to sell the 23-year-old but are asking for at least €75m (£65.5m).
Madrid are keen on overhauling their midfield this summer and have set their sights on United target Adam Wharton. If they were to sign the English starlet that could open the door for Camavinga to head to Old Trafford.
The Frenchman is still viewed as an “extremely valuable player” by Los Blancos chiefs and is aware that he will have many suitors. He has just over three years left on his contract.
The Reds might be enticed by Camavinga’s versatility, as he can play as a makeshift left-back. Given his age, he could be an ideal Casemiro replacement who anchors the midfield for years to come.
Camavinga caution
A move for Camavinga would certainly show ambition, but it doesn’t feel likely. He is still young, and Madrid surely aren’t willing to give up on him this early.
He is enduring a difficult season amid inconsistent form. He’s appeared 28 times across competitions, scoring two goals and providing one assist.
Rennes sporting director Florian Maurice spoke glowingly of Camavinga’s move to Madrid back in 2023. He told AS:
“He is a fantastic player. What he did so young at Rennes was incredible. And what he is doing right now at a club the size of Real Madrid is incredible. He’s a French international, he’s a formidable player and person.”
United have plenty of alternatives should a move for Camavinga not occur. Palace’s Wharton is on INEOS’ radar, as are Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.
