Manchester United appear to have added another midfielder to their shortlist of potential Casemiro replacements ahead of the Brazilian’s departure. The Reds are set to part with the 34-year-old when his contract expires in June.
The likes of Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson have been linked. Those three all possess Premier League experience and are three of the most highly-rated midfielders in the top-flight.
United’s transfer chiefs are also scouring Europe and have been impressed by what they’ve seen from Papa Gueye. The Senegalese shone at the Africa Cup of Nations, scoring a stunning winner in a 1-0 win over Morocco in the final.
Man United could go for Gueye
Gueye’s stock is rising in La Liga amid a stellar season with Villarreal, where he is a key man in Marcelino’s midfield. His performances for club and country have garnered interest from United, who are now reportedly tracking him, per Foot Mercato.
It’s thought that several clubs are keen on Gueye, and he’s “highly regarded” by the Reds, and they are considering making a “very tempting offer this summer.” The 27-year-old is viewed as an “ideal” acquisition to replace Casemiro.
| Papa Gueye (La Liga 2025-26) | Statistic: |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 19 |
| Goals: | 3 |
| Assists: | 1 |
| Key passes: | 2 |
| Long balls (accurate): | 2.6 (53%) |
| Interceptions: | 0.8 |
| Tackles per game: | 0.9 |
| Ground duels won: | 3.1 (55%) |
Gueye, dubbed “outstanding” by Breaking The Lines, will have two years left on his contract this summer, and there are suggestions that Villarreal only just managed to keep hold of him in the winter. He’s set to represent Senegal at the World Cup, and a move to one of Europe’s big clubs could be on the cards.
Man United must prioritise Premier League proven
It’s promising to hear that United are lining up different options as potential replacements for Casemiro. When important players have departed in the past, the club have taken too long to address their departures.
Casemiro has been vital for the Reds this season, posting five goals and two assists in 25 league games. It’s a shame that the former Real Madrid man is leaving, given he still has so much to offer.
Gueye is an interesting target given he’s not young but is enjoying a fine season for Villarreal and starred at AFCON. He does feel a risk, though, given he lacks Premier League experience and isn’t on the same level as Casemiro was when he arrived at Old Trafford.
Plotting a move for the Senegalese midfielder should be with the idea of making two central midfield signings rather than just one. The priority should be to sign a younger profile, such as Baleba or Anderson, who can become long-term midfield options.
Baleba is the answer
If it’s a direct replacement for Casemiro that United are eyeing, then Baleba is the best option. The Cameroonian has shone in the Premier League with Brighton, albeit not quite at his best this season.
The Reds already approached the Seagulls about a possible deal for the 22-year-old last summer. David Ornstein of The Athletic reported that the club told him he wasn’t for sale, but that a possible deal could be revisited.
Baleba has been likened to Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo and could form a fine partnership with Kobbie Mainoo. If two new midfielders are on the agenda, then swooping for Anderson as well would be an incredible window, hopefully ahead of a return to Champions League football.
