Man Utd now identify £40m star as prime target to replace Casemiro - report

Manchester United are poised to reinforce the midfield department when the transfer window reopens this summer.

The Red Devils have already announced that Casemiro will depart when his contract expires at the end of the campaign.

A marquee replacement will be signed, and AS claim that Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes is among the top targets.

The Red Devils highly regard the Brazilian ace, and Casemiro has also recommended the club to pursue his signature.

The former Lyon man won’t come on the cheap with the Magpies expected to maintain a strong stance on the transfer value.

Guimaraes will enter the last two years of his contract later this year, but Eddie Howe’s side will still demand a British-record fee.

AS report that it could cost more than £131 million to prise Guimaraes away from the Magpies during the next transfer window.

Man Utd unlikely to pursue deal for Guimaraes

Earlier last month, United were credited with an interest in Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, who could secure a new challenge this summer.

The club have now been linked with his teammate Guimaraes, who is sidelined with an ankle injury and could be ruled out for many weeks.

Guimaraes arrived at the Magpies from Lyon for £40 million four years ago and has gone on to become an integral part of their starting plans.

The 28-year-old is an undisputed starter in the number six position when fit and has led by example at the Magpies with the captain’s armband this term.

He has had another top-class season with nine goals and seven assists to his name. Guimaraes has also impressed with his defensive contributions.

The Brazilian possesses a tireless work rate and does not shy away from making crunch tackles. He has traits similar to those of compatriot Casemiro.

However, the Red Devils would ideally want a defensive midfielder with better passing attributes, which they presently lack in the current squad.

Guimaraes’ age (28) could be another drawback. United may prefer a much younger holding midfielder who can provide a future resale value.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has been mentioned as a target by AS, and he would be a perfect fit for the Red Devils ahead of next season.

The Englishman could be signed for around £75 million or even less if Forest are relegated. We believe Anderson could emerge as the prime choice.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .