Casemiro’s time at Manchester United is coming to an end when the season concludes. The veteran Brazilian midfielder has decided to part ways when his contract expires in June.
The search for the 34-year-old’s replacement is already underway, and a Premier League signing seems likely. Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson look to be at the top of INEOS’ wishlist.
If it were up to Casemiro, the Reds would try to bring Bruno Guimaraes to Old Trafford this summer. His Brazilian compatriot has shone at Newcastle United ever since arriving from Lyon for £41m in January 2022.
Manchester United told go get Guimaraes
Guimaraes has been a leader for Eddie Howe’s Magpies and helped his side win the League Cup last season. He has appeared 35 times across competitions this season, posting nine goals and seven assists.
The 28-year-old’s future isn’t certain at St James’ Park amid the threat of missing out on Champions League qualification. A report from Spanish outlet Diario AS claims that Casemiro has advised Manchester United to try and sign him this summer.
Guimaraes has just over two years on his contract, and a potential move for the Newcastle star wouldn’t be cheap. He is one of several midfielders on INEOS’ radar, and the club have “held talks” with his representatives.
Manchester United might face competition for the Brazilian if he does become available in the summer. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is a massive fan, calling him ‘special’ back in November:
“I’ve always been a big fan of Bruno. Since he was in Lyon, you start to realise that he is a special player. Newcastle made an incredible (signing).”
City were linked with Guimaraes in the summer, and a £100m release clause was thought to have been in play. He’s not the only member of Howe’s first-team squad who could be on the move.
Tonali too
The report also claims that Guimaraes’ teammate, Sandro Tonali, is of interest, and that the duo are two of the three leading midfield targets. Tonali looks likely to head out the exit door this summer after seemingly trying to force a move in January.
David Ornstein of The Athletic reported that Tonali’s agent offered the Italian to Arsenal, but no move was made. The 25-year-old could be one to watch when the transfer window opens, although other top clubs are likely to be interested.
Tonali has made 43 appearances across competitions this season, bagging three goals and six assists. He’s full of energy and tidy on the ball, but not the defensive midfield profile that could replace Casemiro.
Forest’s Anderson is the other name said to be at the top of the Reds’ shortlist. Not one but two new midfielders might be arriving at Old Trafford in an overhaul under Michael Carrick or a new permanent manager.
