Manchester United are in the market for new central midfielders to replace Casemiro and it appears one of the World Cup's current stars is on their radar
Casemiro of Brazil looks dejected during the Group C - FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Brazil and Morocco at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 13, 2026 in East Rutherford, United States.
Manchester United are still looking to replace Casemiro(Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)
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Manchester United are in the race to sign Germany World Cup star Felix Nmecha, according to reports. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder is already courting many admirers in the USA, but he was first linked with United in February.
He opened the scoring for the Germans in their 7-1 victory over Curacao, whipping a first-time, right-footed finish into the top corner from 20 yards against the Caribbean side. He also impressed with his box-to-box style and ability to snuff out counterattacks.
Nmecha, 25, came through the ranks at Manchester City before joining Wolfsburg in 2021 after an impressive campaign on loan at Anderlecht. Reports from Germany are now claiming he may come back to Manchester to join United, who view him as a potential replacement for Casemiro.
Sky Sports Deutschland has claimed United are one of many contenders for his signature. Interestingly, next door neighbours and his former club City have also been credited with an interest.
In addition, Real Madrid are also believed to be in the mix with returning manager Jose Mourinho understood to be interested in Nmecha. However, he will not come cheap.
Dortmund are understood to be comfortable about his future, having got him under contract until 2030. Moreover, a release clause in said deal, which would allow him to depart if a bid of £61m was submitted, comes into play in the summer of 2027.
Felix Nmecha of Germany celebrates the 5th team goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Germany and Curacao at Houston Stadium on June 14, 2026 in Houston, Texas
Nmecha has been impressive for World Cup(Image: Getty Images)
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The Bundesliga heavyweights are prepared for him to move during that period rather than this summer. In addition, Nmecha's agent also appeared to suggest the player will not be moving any time soon.
In a recent interview with German outlet Bild, his agent Tobi Alabi said: "Felix still has two years left on his contract, and we fully respect that. Borussia Dortmund have played an important role in his development.
"He is grateful for the trust and the platform the club have given him. The player is developing from season to season, and when a player performs well, there is naturally always interest and questions about his future.
Nathan Moriah-Welsh of AFC Bournemouth tackles Felix Nmecha of Manchester City during the FA Youth Cup Sixth Round Match between AFC Bournemouth U18 and Manchester City U18 at Vitality Stadium on February 26, 2019 in Bournemouth, England
Nmecha's football education was spent with Manchester City(Image: Getty Images)
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"That’s part of top-level football and reflects the progress he has made. Right now, the focus is very clear: Felix is determined to give everything for Borussia Dortmund, to fight for the club and to help the team achieve its goals.”
United are on the cusp of confirming the signing of Brazil star and Atalanta midfielder Ederson for £39m. He is expected to undergo a medical while at the World Cup with his nation.