Not Anderson or Tonali: Man Utd are poised to sign 22yo midfielder to replace Casemiro - opinion

Manchester United are expected to sign a marquee defensive midfielder this summer.

The Red Devils have already confirmed that Casemiro will be leaving the club when his contract expires on June 30.

The Brazilian’s form has been brilliant since the announcement, and United have a huge void to fill for next season.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has been named among the top targets to succeed the 34-year-old.

However, the Englishman would favour a move to Manchester City this summer.

Journalist Andy Mitten has also personally acknowledged that he would be surprised if the 23-year-old chooses United over the Cityzens.

Newcastle United ace Sandro Tonali has also been linked in recent weeks, but United have played down the prospect, as per The Athletic.

The club are considering other targets with the overall costs involved for the transfer beyond their expectations.

This probably suggests that United could again lean towards Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba.

Baleba was a top midfield target last summer, but United were put off by the £115 million valuation set by the Seagulls.

The Red Devils have remained in contact with his agents ahead of a potential move later this summer.

Brighton have lowered their valuation due to Baleba’s average league form, and he could be signed for less than £100m this time.

Baleba has had a drastic dip in his overall performances, and it has been visible right from his distribution from the heart of the midfield.

The 22-year-old has made just 18 passes per league game compared to 34 in the past campaign.

He has won less than half the number of duels than last season (5.9 to 2.8), and the same has been the case with his tackles (2.3 to 1.1).

Similarly, his recoveries per outing have dropped from 5.8 to three. The speculation last summer has taken its toll on his overall displays.

Despite this, he remains highly valued by United’s hierarchy.

With Anderson and Tonali no longer at the top of the wishlist, United could revive their pursuit of Baleba based on his potential and previous track record.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .