Manchester United will pursue a new defensive midfielder to replace Casemiro this summer.
Casemiro will formally leave the Red Devils when his contract expires at the end of June.
A marquee replacement will be signed. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is a top target, but the Englishman is prepared to snub the Red Devils for a move to Manchester City.
United may have to explore an alternative target, and AS Colombia claim that the Red Devils are among those who have expressed interest in signing highly rated Richard Rios.
Rios has enjoyed a superb debut season with Benfica, and he is not pushing for a summer exit. However, he would consider a move for an irresistible sporting and financial project.
The Colombian has a £87 million release clause in his current deal, and it is claimed that Benfica may seek to secure the best possible fee on the back of his World Cup performances.
Rios would be a superb acquisition for United
The 25-year-old was on the Red Devils’ radar last summer before his move to Benfica from Flamengo.
He has had a good debut campaign for the Primeira Liga giants. Rios has won almost seven duels per league appearance (6.6) with two tackles and four recoveries.
He has also completed 38 passes per outing and has been a good influence in the final third, too, chipping in with five goals and five assists from 41 appearances.
Rios was signed by Benfica for around £24 million upfront, and we believe a deal could be done with the Portuguese side if United propose to pay around £45-50 million.
United are currently on course for Champions League qualification, which should be a lucrative attraction. Benfica may miss out on the competition through their league.
Rios is presently on a basic salary of £50,000 per week. United could easily double that package. Hence, the Red Devils should fancy their chances of prising Rios away.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com